Agenda of Environment and Services Committee

Animal Pest Operational Plan 2014 - 15

Attachment 1

1.0 Introduction

This operational plan sets out how Hawke’s Bay Regional Council will implement the animal pest objectives for the control of animal pests as set out in the Hawke’s Bay Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP). This operational plan is effective from 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015.

2.0 Background

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council is the management agency for the RPMP. As the management agency, Council is required to prepare an annual operational plan that sets out how the strategy is to be implemented. Following the end of each financial year, staff will report to Council on the implementation of the operational plan.

This operational plan focuses on the objectives for the control of animal pests as set out in the RPMP. HBRC’s draft 2014/15 Annual Plan details the expected level of expenditure by Council in working towards achieving the objectives set out in the RPMP.

3.0 Measuring Performance

Staff will report to Council by 30 November each calendar year on the animal pest control programmes undertaken over the previous financial year. This report will indicate the level of achievement towards the RPMP objectives that has been made during the past year. Specifically the report will cover:

· The programmes undertaken compared to the approved programme as set out in the Operational Plan;

· Results from any trend monitoring undertaken, and an assessment of these results;

· The number of complaints and enquires received, and an assessment of those complaints and enquires;

· The education initiatives undertaken during the year — the number of presentations and publications or press releases on pest management issues;

· The number of direction notices issued, the level of compliance with those notices, and any follow-up activity undertaken;

· The outcomes of all service delivery operations undertaken;

· All research initiatives to which contributions have been made during the year; and

· Any cross boundary issues that arose and how they were resolved.

4.0 Animal Pest categories

The RPMP contains two classes of animal pests, Regional Control Animal Pests and Site Specific Animal Pests.

RPMS Classification

Animal Species

Regional control

animal pests

Possums;

Rabbits; and

Rooks.

Site specific control

animal pests

Feral goats;

Feral deer, Feral pigs;

Mustelids (weasels, ferrets, and stoats);

Feral cats; and

Rats (Norway and ship rats).

The operational plan details the strategy objective for the control of the animal pests and provides a brief description of what activities HBRC will undertake to achieve the stated objective.

5.0 Regional Control Animal Pests

Regional control animal pests are pests that have management programmes which cover the entire region. The main focus of this programme is the control of possums through the implementation of Self-help Possum Control Areas (PCAs).

Possums

The control of possums is the major focus of Council’s animal pest control programme. The strategy objective for possum control is:

That by 30 June 2016 possum control measures will be operating over 900,000 hectares of land, ensuring that possum density on that land is below 5% trap catch.

To achieve this objective HBRC established Possum Control Areas (PCAs) with the support and assistance of land occupiers. Within PCAs, Council arranged for initial possum control to 3% residual trap catch (rtc) using pest control contractors. Occupiers of land which has received such control are now required to maintain possum numbers at 5% rtc.

When an Animal Health Board (AHB) possum control programme is withdrawn from an area, the Council requires land occupiers within that area to form a PCA.

Total area of productive land with low possum numbers is

· PCA’s 507,740

· AHB 400,000 (approximately)

· Remaining productive land still to be treated 24,998ha’s

This area is made up of the Nuhaka, Mahanga and Papuni operations within which land occupiers have declined participating in the PCA programme.

With this exception HBRC have achieved the possum control objective.

The Animal Health Board (now trading as Tbfree NZ) have advised HBRC that they will be withdrawing control over 84,716ha of productive land in the 2014/15 year. Biosecurity staff will visit each individual property within this area and ensure that occupiers are fully aware of the following:

· The relevant content of the RPMP including the requirement for landowners and occupiers to keep possum numbers below 5% rtc;

· The process of establishing a PCA;

· The availability of Council assistance to land occupiers from the Biosecurity Advisory Team;

· Council’s approach to compliance including different levels of monitoring; and

· The consequences of non-compliance, which includes Council undertaking possum control work to meet the 5% rtc requirement through a contractor; and billing the occupier for the cost of that control.

Initial Contact:

Land owners and occupiers are also briefed on control methods and are encouraged to engage a contractor to carry out the required maintenance work. Occupiers in PCAs are encouraged to carry out maintenance in a three-month period in order to gain maximum benefit from maintenance efforts and reduce the risk of reinvasion from untreated neighbours within the same PCA.

Subsequent Contact:

Follow-up contact regarding maintenance in subsequent years is greatly reduced and will involve reminder letters and phone calls.

Monitoring:

Trend monitoring will be carried out over PCAs to provide an indication of the success of the programme and to provide an early warning of any possible problem areas. Monitors will be undertaken over individual properties to determine the success of individuals control methods, and where it is suspected that the occupier is not meeting the required 5% rtc.

Maintenance Contractors:

The Advisory Team will recommend the use of maintenance contractors to land occupiers in PCAs, audit their work, assist with training opportunities and receive reports from them regarding the work that they are carrying out on behalf of landowners.

Boundary control

Currently the southern regional boundary is subject to an agreement between Horizons and HBRC Biosecurity staff for possum control to be undertaken as necessary to complement HBRC’s PCA programme.

In the 2014/15 financial year staff will undertake discussions with the Gisborne District Council to put in place a boundary control programme to assist ratepayers in the northern part of the region on the PCA programme.

Urban pest management

Possum control in an urban environment brings a range of biodiversity and amenity benefits. The Hawkes Bay Urban Biodiversity project commenced with the highly successful Napier hill possum control operation which was completed in June 2009. Bird monitoring has shown significant increases within the urban environment in a range of bird species. Bellbirds have doubled and Tui has trebled in number.

Table 4: Completed Urban & Semi Urban Projects.

Urban Pest Management Operational Areas	Hectares
Napier Hill	282
Havelock North Stage 1	461
Havelock North Stage 2	578
Havelock North Stage 3	630
Pakipaki	3,523
Mangateretere	4,866
Poraiti Park Island	1,146
Pukekura (Taradale)	452
Karamu (Hastings)	1,575
Total Hectares	13,513

Table 5: Proposed Semi Urban Pest Management Operational Areas 2014/2015

Urban Pest Management Operational Areas	Hectares
Otatara (Taradale)	345
Waiohiki (Taradale Fernhill)	1,953

There is approximately 8000 ha of urban or semi urban areas in the broader Napier and Hastings urban area that are still to receive initial control. Control will be programmed at 300-1000 ha per annum.

Product Subsidy Scheme:

HBRC provides a subsidy on a range of possum control products. All land occupiers who are part of a possum control area will be given the opportunity of training and advice in the best methods of possum control on their land as part of their ongoing possum control programme. Advice will cover such things as potential possum food sources, suitable possum control methods and appropriate timing of control methods. The subsidised products will be available to all ratepayers, whether they are in a PCA or not.

Bait Stations:

A range of bait stations will be supplied to occupiers in PCAs who engage the services of a maintenance contractor. Numbers will be limited and contractors are required to install them to a prescribed protocol and all bait station locations must be recorded by Global Positioning Systems (GPS) with that data provided to Council.

QEII:

Landowners who have a QEII block less than 20 hectares on their property are eligible to receive free possum bait sufficient to control possums within the QEII area. For landowners with QEIIs greater than 20 hectares, or where several small QEIIs are collectively greater than 20 hectares, HBRC arranges and pays for possum control.

Table 6 shows those PCAs that will receive initial contact regarding possum maintenance:

Table 6: First Round of Maintenance 2014/2015

Self-Help Possum Control Areas	Hectares	Maintenance Time Frames
Waihua River GS2	5,829
Wairoa Buffer GS1 & GS2	10,4750
Totals	110,579

The PCAs in Table 6 have already received the first intensive round of visits from the Advisory Team and will be contacted reminding them of the need to carry out maintenance.

Trend Monitoring

Council monitors 10% of the PCA programme annually. Of this area monitored no more than 10% of monitoring lines should exceed a 5% trap catch. Where lines over 5% are identified, staff visit the land occupier(s) and discuss what actions they should be taking to reduce possum numbers.

Rabbits

The RPMS long term goal and strategy objective for rabbits is:

Long Term Goal: To minimise the adverse effects of rabbits on the region’s biodiversity and economic prosperity.

Strategy Objective: To ensure that rabbits are maintained below level 4, on the McLean Scale.

To achieve this, the Strategy states that HBRC will:

· Conduct targeted surveillance of rabbit prone areas;

· Conduct periodic monitoring of rabbits at known or suspected Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD) areas;

· Provide advice and education to land occupiers, including occupiers of small blocks, to help them control rabbits by the most efficient and effective means.

· Monitor for compliance with the rabbit control rule; and

· At its discretion, and as set out in an approved management programme, meet up to 50% of the cost of rabbit control on rateable land where rabbit numbers exceed 4 on the McLean Scale.

Monitoring

HBRC implements the following monitoring regimes:

(a) Density Monitoring

Density monitoring will involve spotlight counts every 1 to 2 years along 21 predetermined rabbit monitoring lines. These lines have been selected based on historical spotlight count routes with approximately 80% of the lines in “rabbit prone areas” and the remainder outside those areas. These lines are to be counted over two nights using national protocols.

(b) RHD Monitoring

In accordance with nationally accepted guidelines, HBRC conducts the sampling of rabbits from at least 15 different sites around the region on a 1 to 2 year basis and tests for RHD. This monitoring will be used to confirm the presence or absence of RHD, or any levels of immunity that may be building in the rabbit population. The information gathered from this monitoring will be entered on the Rabbit Database and will provide information that may be used to assess the need for greater intervention in rabbit control.

(c) Compliance Monitoring

If Biosecurity staff receive a complaint or enquiry about a property with high rabbit numbers then staff or a contractor commissioned by HBRC will visit the property and carry out an assessment of rabbit numbers. If densities are found to be greater than 4 on the McLean scale, the occupier may be issued with a notice of direction under section 122 of the Biosecurity Act to comply with the RPMP rule which requires landowners to maintain rabbit populations below 4 on the McLean scale from mid- January to mid-August. Complaints will only be acted on from mid- January to mid-August as temporary spikes in the population can occur outside these times. The RPMP states that HBRC will at its discretion meet up to 50% of the cost of rabbit control.

Education

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council will provide advice and education to land occupiers, including occupiers of small blocks, to encourage them to control rabbits by the most efficient and effective means. This work will comprise advising and educating individual land occupiers on ways of minimising the risk of rabbits impacting on their properties, participating in discussion groups, field days, preparing pamphlets and using media opportunities to convey relevant information.

Incentive Scheme

Where there are incidents of rabbit populations exceeding 4 on the McLean Scale, the occupier of that land may qualify for financial assistance from HBRC to assist with the cost of rabbit control. Before any such assistance is agreed to by HBRC, the occupier will be required to have an agreed management programme, which will specify the method of rabbit control and set out a long-term management programme aimed at limiting rabbit populations in the future. The HBRC contribution to any control work shall be funded from the rabbit reserve fund.

Service Delivery

HBRC do not use staff to conduct any rabbit control operations. The major focus is on monitoring rabbit populations to ensure rabbit populations are maintained at or below level four on the McLean Scale, and to provide information and advice to occupiers. In certain circumstances the incentive scheme will be used to assist land occupiers with rabbit control, with Council providing an advisory or contract management role.

Map 1: Rabbit night count routes.

Map 2: RCV sample sites.

Rooks

The RPMS long term goal and objective for rooks is:

Long Term Goal: To eradicate rooks from Hawke’s Bay.

Strategy Objective: From north of the ‘rook clear line’ destroy all known rookeries by 30 June 2016. From south of the ‘rook clear line’ reduce rook numbers to 4,000 birds by 31 December 2016 and maintain rooks, such that numbers do not exceed that amount in the future.

The rook clear line is defined by SH5.

To achieve this, the Strategy states that:

· Hawke’s Bay Regional Council will provide information to land occupiers on rook identification, the potential adverse effects that they cause, who to contact for rook control, and the risks of inappropriate control.

· North of the ‘rook clear line’, all known rookeries will be destroyed by Hawke’s Bay Regional Council by 30 June 2016, subject to climatic conditions being suitable.

· South of the ‘rook clear line’, as described in Figure 5, Hawke’s Bay Regional Council will provide an annual rook control service, when climatic conditions are suitable, to reduce the population to a maximum of 4,000 birds by 31 December 2016. Rook numbers will then be kept at or below this level.

Service Delivery

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council will arrange for all rook control operations.

Eradication Zone

In the northern half of the region, it is intended to eradicate rooks by 30 June 2016.

HBRC will employ suitable contractors to undertake annual control work over all rookeries in the eradication zone. HBRC will conduct an annual rookery count in this part of the region to determine the effects of the control contract. Operations will be co-ordinated with Gisborne District Council in this zone where low numbers of rooks are present.

Aerial Rook Control in Action:

Map 3: Aerial Rook Programme

Note: It is estimated that there are approx 2.5 rooks for each active nest.

Map 4: Extinct Rookeries

Control Zone

In the southern half of the region, it is intended to reduce rook numbers to below 4000 by 31 December 2016, and then maintain rook numbers below this level. Council will arrange for suitable contractors to undertake annual control work. The main control work will be conducted during spring and summer.

Biosecurity staff will respond to complaints or enquires about rooks in the Control Zone. Where rooks appear to be causing damage to agricultural crops or causing a general nuisance, Council will arrange for control work to be conducted, if Biosecurity staff believe that a successful result is possible. This decision will be based on the weather and availability of other food sources.

6.0 Education

Advice and information on identifying rooks will be provided to ratepayers on request. Specific information about rooks, the difficulty of control and how best to manage rooks will be made available to specific grower organisations in late winter, to assist farmers identify potential problems and provide possible solutions before crops are planted.

7.0 Site Specific Pests

Site Specific Pests will only have management programmes in place in specific sites and under certain criteria. There are 30 site specific animal pest community groups currently being supported. The RPMP lists feral goats, feral deer, feral pigs, mustelids (weasels, ferrets, and stoats), feral cats, and rats (Norway and ship rats) as Site Specific Animal Pests. Where there are sufficient benefits to doing so, and upon land user request, HBRC may meet up to 50% of the cost of control to any land occupier. HBRC will provide “Environment Topics” on the best methods to control these pests in response to public enquires.

8.0 QEII Covenanted Land

Site specific animal pest control on QEII blocks outside PCA’s will be in accordance with an approved management plan with individual occupiers.

HBRC may consider treatment of pests on QEII blocks less than 20 hectares or other land with high ecological value where the conservation values of that land justify such control. Financial assistance for the control of animal pests on covenanted land smaller than 20 hectares may be available on request from the land occupier. Before any assistance is provided HBRC must assess the land, and a management plan be agreed between the occupier and HBRC.

9.0 Research Initiatives

There are a range of research initiatives under way as part of HBRC’s approved stage one for wide scale predator control. These include chew card operational maximisation, minimum predator control area modelling, benefits from reducing toxoplasmosis, farmer WSPC value proposition / uptake and “green credentials” for farm products where farm management delivers environmental outcomes.

Bird count monitoring

Monitoring has been completed on one urban site (Napier hill) and one rural site (Kuru range) to assess native bird numbers after possum control taking place. Follow up monitoring will continue to assess the changes in bird numbers over time.

10.0 Advice And Information

Public inquires regarding the control of animal pests listed in the RPMP will be dealt with as noted in this Plan. For inquires regarding control of magpies, HBRC has a limited number of traps which it can make available to occupiers to conduct their own control. For all other animals of concern information will be provided to assist people undertake their own control. This information may be by way of sending them Environment Topics or providing people with a list of pest control contractors who could assist them control the animal of concern.

11.0 Argentine ants

HBRC is currently undertaking surveillance activities to access the extent of the argentine ant infestation in the region. In addition to thispublic awareness of this pest is being built and best practice control and guidelines provided to occupiers who may want to undertake control.

12.0 Wide Scale predator Control (Cat and Mustelid) - Cape to City

HBRC is currently involved in a multi agency initiative. The Cape to City project is a community based initiative with strong backing from several agencies including HBRC, DOC, Landcare Research and land users.

The project is ambitious and hopes to achieve positive biodiversity and social outcomes over 26,655 hectares encompassing both DOC reserves and private farmland. The vision of this project is to have “native species co-exist with human habitation, food production and recreation.”

Longer term, the HBRC’s main objectives in regard to Wide Scale predator control are to:

- Identify a pest control regime that substantially reduces the current cost of top predator (cats and mustelids) control within a rural landscape containing significant bush fragments

- Provide additional protection to important habitat or sites of regional significance and native species that will benefit from top predator control.

- Support and empower the local community to set and attain achievable biodiversity protection goals.

Stage one which is to assess the feasibility of the project will be completed by November 2014. Subject to council approval and funding stage two (predator initial control) will commence later in the 14/15 financial year.

13.0 Regional pest management Plan review

The RPMP 2013 must be review before 2018. It is likely however that a National Policy Direction prepared in accordance with the Biosecurity Law Reform Act 2013, will require the Plan to be reviewed before this date.

A Councillor working party has been established and will consider what changes could be made to HBRC’s current approach to animal pest management early in the 2014/15 financial year to enable some public comment to be received prior the development of the draft Long term plan 2015/25, and to consider the adequacy of current funding arrangements which provide for the implementation of pest management activities.

Plant Pest Operational Plan 2014 - 15

Attachment 2

1.0 Introduction

This operational plan sets out how HBRC will implement the objectives for the control of plant pests as set out in the Hawke’s Bay Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP). This operational plan is effective from 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015.

2.0 Background

HBRC is the management agency for the RPMP. As the management agency HBRC is required to prepare an operational plan that sets out how the Plan is to be implemented. At the end of each financial year, staff will report to Council on the implementation of the operational plan.

This operational plan focuses on the methods of implementing the objectives for the control of plant pests as set out in the RPMP. HBRC’s annual plan details the expected level of expenditure by HBRC in working towards achieving the objectives set out in the RPMP. The operational plan details the methods used to achieve those objectives.

3.0 Measuring performance

Staff will report to Council by 30 November each calendar year on the plant pest control programmes undertaken over the previous financial year through the annual report. This report will indicate the level of achievement towards the RPMP objectives that has been made during the past year. Specifically the report will cover:

· The programmes undertaken compared to the proposed programme as set out in the Operational Plan;

· A summary of all subsidy fund applications received and the outcome of all subsidised work;

· The education initiatives undertaken during the year and the number of presentations and publications or press releases on pests management issues;

· The number of direction notices issued, the level of compliance with those notices, and any follow-up activity undertaken;

· The outcomes of all service delivery operations undertaken;

· The results of biological control research and monitoring, and the number of bio-control releases undertaken;

· Any cross boundary issues that arose and how they were resolved.

4.0 Total control plant pests

The RPMP defines a Total Control plant pest as one that is of limited distribution in the region, and the long-term goal is its eventual eradication. Seventeen plants are listed as Total Control plant pests. The RPMP places these into two categories, Service Delivery and Occupier Responsibility.

For each of these plant categories the operational plan provides a brief description of what activities HBRC will undertake to achieve the RPMP objectives.

(i) Table 1: Plant Pests

Total Control (Service Delivery)	Management Regime
African feather grass	HBRC will at its discretion control every known infestation before seeds reach maturity
Goats rue	HBRC will at its discretion control every known infestation before seeds reach maturity
Nassella tussock	HBRC will at its discretion control every known infestation before seeds reach maturity
Phragmites	In accordance with the contract between HBRC and Ministry of Primary Industries, HBRC will control every known infestation of this plant annually
Privet	HBRC has altered the delivery of the privet programme to service delivery by a contractor. The contractor should be able to control Privet on most properties within at least six weeks of a legitimate complaint. However, this does not apply to Privet found in rural areas. In these situations, Occupiers are responsible and may qualify for a subsidy under the incentive scheme. The Standard Operating Procedures for managing Privet are attached to this paper. (Appendix 1)
Spiny emex	HBRC will at its discretion control every known infestation before seeds reach maturity
White edged nightshade	HBRC will at its discretion control every known infestation before seeds reach maturity
Yellow water lily	HBRC will at its discretion control every known infestation before seeds reach maturity

Total Control (Occupier Responsibility)	Management Regime
Apple of Sodom	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Apple of Sodom on their land, and may qualify for a subsidy under the incentive scheme. HBRC will at its discretion control some known infestations before seeds reach maturity where it is practical to do so
Australian sedge	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Australian sedge on their land, and may qualify for a subsidy under the incentive scheme. HBRC will at its discretion control some known infestations before seeds reach maturity where it is practical to do so
Chilean needle grass	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Chilean Needle grass on their land, and may qualify for a subsidy under the incentive scheme. Chilean needle grass has been identified in summer dry areas of the region — west of Napier, and on land at Maraekakaho, Poukawa, Waipawa, Wakarara, Omakere and Porangahau. There are infestations on river berm land and roadsides. Biosecurity staff will arrange for the control of Chilean needle grass on public land. On private land occupiers are required to control Chilean needle grass in accordance with their agreed management programmes. HBRC will at its discretion control some known infestations before seeds reach maturity where it is practical to do so. HBRC will support Environment Canterbury in raising awareness of CNG within New Zealand and to help achieve milestones in the Sustainable Farming Fund CNG Project. HBRC will encourage the use of the new control tool, Flupropanate as required. HBRC will assist Marlborough and Canterbury Regional Councils in undertaking further Flupropanate trials to provide residue and efficacy data to the Environmental Protection Agency
Cotton thistle	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Cotton thistle on their land, and may qualify for a subsidy under the incentive scheme. HBRC will at its discretion control some known infestations before seeds reach maturity where it is practical to do so
Japanese honeysuckle	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Japanese Honeysuckle on their land in the designated control area, and may qualify for a subsidy under the incentive scheme. HBRC will at its discretion control some known infestations before seeds reach maturity where it is practical to do so
Pinus contorta	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Pinus contorta on their land, and may qualify for a subsidy under the incentive scheme. HBRC will at its discretion control some known infestations before seeds reach maturity where it is practical to do so HBRC will continue to work with its partners in Nature Central to achieve operational efficiencies and to target strategic infestations HBRC will continue the clearing of Pinus contorta on multiple ownership land in the Rangitaiki area as resources allow.
Old man’s beard	The RPMP states that North of SH 5 Old man’s beard is not as widespread as it is South of this area, and it is therefore still worthwhile to require occupiers to continue to control OMB north of SH5. South of SH5 staff will respond to complaints. South of SH5 Council will still encourage the control of OMB but will not enforce compliance. Landusers below SH5 will still be eligible for the incentive scheme for the control of OMB. HBRC will at its discretion control some known infestations before seeds reach maturity where it is practical to do so There are major infestations along the river-berms, especially in Central Hawke’s Bay and the lower reaches of the Ngaruroro River. This land is administered as part of the Upper Tukituki Flood Control Scheme and the Heretaunga Plains Flood Control Scheme respectively.
Saffron thistle	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Saffron thistle on their land, and may qualify for a subsidy under the incentive scheme. HBRC will at its discretion control some known infestations before seeds reach maturity where it is practical to do so
Woolly nightshade	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Woolly nightshade on their land, and may qualify for a subsidy under the incentive scheme. HBRC will at its discretion control some known infestations before seeds reach maturity where it is practical to do so

5.0 Boundary control plant pests

The RPMP defines a Boundary Control plant pest as one that is abundant in suitable habitats in the region. The long-term goal is to prevent these plant pests spreading to new areas or neighbouring properties. The RPMP requires land occupiers to keep their property boundary free of the Boundary Control plant pest, if it is not present within a defined distance on their neighbour’s property.

Biosecurity staff will respond to a complaint from an affected occupier regarding the control of Boundary Control plant pests. On getting a complaint, a Biosecurity Officer will visit the property of the complainant and adjoining property, to confirm the identity of the plant, and what if any control needs to be carried out. Should control work be necessary the occupier of the property on which the infestation originates will be asked to carry out the necessary control work. A follow up inspection will be carried out to ensure work has been completed and if necessary, enforcement action will be undertaken.

Boundary Control	Management Regime
Bathurst bur	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Bathurst bur on their land. Where necessary all plants need to be cleared within 5m of the boundary of adjoining clear land.
Blackberry	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Blackberry on their land. Where necessary all plants need to be cleared within 10m of the boundary of adjoining clear land.
Gorse	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Gorse on their land. Where necessary all plants need to be cleared within 10m of the boundary of adjoining clear land.
Nodding thistle	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Nodding thistle on their land. Where necessary all plants need to be cleared within 20m of the boundary of adjoining clear land.
Ragwort	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Ragwort on their land. Where necessary all plants need to be cleared within 20m of the boundary of adjoining clear land.
Variegated thistle	Occupiers are responsible for the control of Variegated thistle on their land. Where necessary all plants need to be cleared within 5m of the boundary of adjoining clear land.

Plant Pest Operational Plan 2014 - 15

Attachment 2

6.0 Biodiversity plants

These are plants that have a negative ecological effect, and staff believe that they can be successfully controlled, at some sites, without being included in the RPMP. The cost for control of these plants will be borne by HBRC. Plants that presently fall into this category are African love grass, Boneseed, Climbing spindleberry, Cathedral bells, Darwins barberry, Blue passion flower, Asiatic knotweed, Giant knotweed, Banana passionfruit, Cotoneaster, Himalayan honeysuckle, Mothplant, Pennisetum villosum, Purple ragwort and Chilean rhubarb.

7.0 DIDYMO

A Didymo advocate will be employed by HBRC over the months of November 2014 – February 2015 to carry out Didymo advocacy on Hawke’s Bay freshwater waterways, subject to a $20,000 grant from the Ministry of Primary Industries which will fully fund these activities. They will also be required to liaise with any clubs using these waterways, visit sports stores, camping grounds and information centres and to contact tourist providers associated with freshwater activities. . Any organizers of activities involving freshwater waterway use will be contacted throughout the year to ensure any equipment in contact with water will be “Checked, Cleaned, Dried”

8.0 Biological control of plant pests

HBRC continues to support research into biological control of plant pests. HBRC’s priorities for further research into bio-control agents during the life of the RPMP are Chilean needle grass, Nassella tussock, and Japanese honeysuckle. Biological agents will be purchased for the control of Broom and Californian thistle. Biological control agents for Ragwort, Nodding thistle, and Gorse are widespread and active in the region.

If an occupier requests a bio-control agent, Biosecurity staff will investigate the property to ensure the bio-control agents are not already present and active on their land. If the Bio-control agents are required, HBRC will arrange for their release, if they are available.

9.0 General advice and information

Biosecurity staff will provide general advice on appropriate methods to control plant pests. The information is intended to assist occupiers meet their obligations under the RPMP. Where chemical control is advocated, then safe use, storage, and disposal of all herbicides will be promoted. Other methods of control may include mechanical methods, grubbing, stock management, or biological control.

Biosecurity staff will also assist with the general identification of plants, and provide information and education material about poisonous plants.

Information and advice on plant pests may also be provided at field days and A&P shows.

10.0 Press releases and general information

During the financial year, Biosecurity staff will produce press releases targeting specific plant pests. The press releases will provide information to occupiers to allow them to identify the plants concerned and encourage them to report its location. The plant pests to be targeted and likely timing of the press release are indicated in the table below:

Plant pest		Time of press release
Chilean needle grass		November 2014
Didymo		January 2015
Saffron thistle		January 2015
Woolly nightshade		April 2015
Mothplant		March 2015
Phragmites	March 2015

Press releases relating to other Total Control plant pests may be issued during the year depending on interest or growing conditions. In addition, the discovery of any new infestations will be reported if appropriate. Publicity material will be prepared using Weedbusters principles. Weedbusters is a national weed awareness programme involving the Department of Conservation and regional councils. HBRC is part of the Weedbusters network.

11.0 Monitoring methods for Total Control plant pests

Staff are undertaking a monitoring programme for total control plant pests using the following guidelines. The objective is to develop a better picture of the effects of control over the duration of the strategy. This monitoring programme will use an estimated 20 days of staff resource and can be completed within existing programmes.

· The two main techniques to be used will be random transects of random properties and plant counts. These are to be done before any control work for the season has been started for that plant pest. They will also be done at the same time each year.

· Transects will vary from 10-100mts in length (depending on terrain) and 1mt wide. All plants that fall within the transect will be counted and the length calculated on GPS. This will represent a portion of a hectare.

· Where multiple transects are used then these will be added together to find the overall number of plants per hectare.

· Where it is practical, plant counts will be done on selected properties of some Total Control Plants which are more than a very limited infestation. These will be done on the same properties each year. Biosecurity staff believe plant counts give a better guide than transects.

· For Total Control Plants of very limited infestation, a plant count will be done to get totals for all of Hawke’s Bay.

· These methods will be used on known infestations only as at 1 July 2006.

12.0 High Risk and QE11 Areas

High-risk areas are defined as picnic sites; old and current dump sites, old homestead sites, recreational areas, rivers, beaches, areas close to a Total Control plant infestation, and native bush areas. These areas are to be inspected as time allows.

13.0 National Pest Plant Accord

The Ministry of Primary Industries manages the National Pest Plant Accord, which has declared 132 plants as unwanted organisms under the Biosecurity Act. HBRC has agreed to be responsible for ensuring that people selling plants are conforming to the requirements of the Act, and not selling or propagating these plants. All plant pests and unwanted organisms are banned from sale and propagation under the Biosecurity Act. All retail outlets that are known to sell plants will be visited at least once per year, to ensure that they are not selling any plant pests listed in the RPMP or any plants on the Pest Plant Accord.

14.0 Management Programmes

Biosecurity staff will negotiate and agree a management programme with Transit NZ and Kiwirail. The management programme will specify how plant pests on their land will be managed.

Management programmes for the control of most Total Control plant pests will be negotiated and agreed with private land occupiers during surveillance and compliance monitoring visits.

Biosecurity staff will negotiate and agree a management programme with the Asset Management section of Council for the control of specific Total Control plant pests that occur on land managed for flood control. The management programme will specify how the Asset Management section will control these plant pests.

15.0 Enforcement

Should a Biosecurity officer observe that an occupier is either in breach of their agreed management programme, or a rule in the RPMP then that officer will issue a direction under section 122 of the Biosecurity Act requiring them to comply with the Plan. If after the reasonable period of time indicated in the direction notice, the required work has not been completed then Biosecurity staff will provide the occupier with written notice that HBRC will arrange for the necessary control work to be carried out. The occupier will meet the cost of this control work.

16.0 Subsidy scheme

The incentive scheme subsidy budget for the 2014/15 financial year is $50,000. It is intended that the incentive scheme will be mainly targeted at the following plant pests: Chilean needle grass, Japanese honeysuckle, Old man’s beard, Cotton thistle and Saffron thistle.

The standard operating procedures detailing how the incentive scheme will be operated are attached to the operational plan (Appendix 2).

17.0 Site Specific

Please refer to the Animal Pest operational plan for information on site specific control.

Appendix 1: Standard Operating Procedures For The Control Of Privet

(a) Introduction

These procedures set out in detail how Biosecurity staff will enforce the Privet rule in the Regional Pest Management Plan.

(b) Comment

Biosecurity staff will only respond to valid complaints^{^[1]}. An occupier with privet would then be advised of the effects of privet and the privet rule. Complaints will be responded to in the following order of priority:

1^st priority – Privet is in complainant’s/ enquirer’s property or on a neighbouring property.

2^nd priority – privet is not in a neighbouring property but is within 100 metres of the complainant’s/enquirer’s house, or adjacent to or on public land.

3^rd priority – all other complaints/enquiries.

Where a valid complaint is about a privet hedge, Biosecurity staff will:

Advise the occupier of the property (or properties if the hedge is a boundary fence) about the effects of privet flowers.

The occupier(s) will agree to a management programme, which would require them to keep the hedge trimmed so as to stop flowering. If the occupier will not trim the hedge Biosecurity staff will arrange a contractor to trim the hedge at Councils cost.

Phytosanitary Operational Plan 2014 - 15

Attachment 3

1.0 Introduction

This Operational Plan focuses on the methods for implementing the control of Phytosanitary Pests as set out in the Regional Phytosanitary Pest Management Plan.

Hawke’s Bay Fruit Growers Association is responsible for monitoring of the Regional Phytosanitary Pest Management Plan. They will be the initial facilitator in responding to enquiries, and ensuring monitoring information is gathered in response to landowners’ complaints.

The Hawke’s Bay Regional Council will assist Hawke’s Bay Fruit Grower’s Association to achieve a satisfactory conclusion when their involvement and discussions have failed to resolve the issue.

2.0 Background

HBRC will be the management agency for the Regional Phytosanitary Pest Management Plan. As the management agency HBRC is required to prepare an Operational Plan that sets out how the Plan is to be implemented. The Operational Plan will be reviewed annually. At the end of each financial year, Pipfruit New Zealand, and Hawke’s Bay Fruit Growers Association in consultation with HBRC will report to council on the implementation of the Operational Plan.

3.0 Measuring Performance

HBRC staff will report to Council by 30 November each calendar year. These reports will document the performance of HBRC in achieving the objectives of this Regional Photosanitary Pest Management Plan including whether:

· A complaints and enquiries register has been maintained, and follow up action has been taken as appropriate;

· Any phytosantitary pest management control has been undertaken;

· The cost of implementing this strategy.

4.0 Phytosanitary Pests to be Controlled

4.1 Apple black spot (Venturia inaequalis)

Description

Apple black spot is a fungal disease, often referred to as apple scab outside of New Zealand. It is a wet weather disease, and rainy and humid conditions provide ideal conditions for infection. Even the smallest black spot is unacceptable for export.

Rule for Control

Every occupier of an unmanaged pipfruit production site in Hawke’s Bay is required to control Apple black spot (Venturia inaequalis) on their land from the presence of green tips until fruit harvest by applying Apple black spot fungicides on a calendar basis as per the fungicide label instructions.

A breach of this rule is an offence under section 154 of the Biosecurity Act 1993.

Fruit so treated will not be available for export sale.

4.2 Codling moth (Cydia pomonella)

Description

Codling moth is a small speckled, grey moth, hosted by apple, pear and walnut trees. The larvae of Codling moth burrows into fruit leaving small holes. The Frass (droppings) indicates the presence of the larva. The moth over-winters as a dormant caterpillar in a cocoon under the bark of the tree or in the soil.

Rule for Control

Every occupier of an unmanaged pipfruit production site in Hawke’s Bay is required to control Codling moth (Cydia pomonella) on their land if five (5) or more Codling moths are caught in any one Codling moth pheromone trap during any calendar week on their land.

A breach of the rule is an offence under the section 154 of the Biosecurity Act 1993.

Occupiers of pipfruit production sites are therefore required to monitor for and control Codling moth.

4.3 European Canker (Nectria galligena)

Description

Initial symptoms of European canker are a small sunken area around a bud, leaf scar, or at the base of a small dead shoot or open wound. Concentric rings of a canker growth then appear. The sunken area increases in size with the centre becoming flaky, eventually it will girdle the stem and shoots above the canker die.

Rule for control

Every occupier of an unmanaged pipfruit production site in Hawke’s Bay is required to control European Canker (Nectria galligena) by inspecting all pipfruit trees on their land at least once during winter (May to August), and removing and burning all pipfruit trees showing any presence of European Canker.

A breach in this rule is an offence under section 154 of the Biosecurity Act 1993.

Occupiers of the pipfruit production sites are therefore required to monitor for and control European Canker.

4.4 Fireblight (Erwinia amylovora)

Description

Blossom infection can result in “shepherds crook” of the shoot. Blossom appear water soaked then turn brown and finally black. Young fruit if infected turn brown, then black, wilt then drop off.

Rule for control

Every occupier of an unmanaged pipfruit production site in Hawke’s Bay is required to control Fireblight (Erwinia amylovora) on their land during the pipfruit bloom period (from pink to petal fall) by applying Fireblight bactericides as per the bactericide label instructions.

A breach in this rule is an offence under section 154 of the Biosecurity Act 1993.

Occupiers of pipfruit production sites are therefore required to monitor for and control Fireblight.

4.5 Lightbrown apple moth (Leafroller) (Epiphyas postvittana)

Description

Lightbrown apple moth adults are variable in colour and may be confused with other leaf rollers. Males have a forewing length of 6-10 mm with a light brown area at the base distinguishable from a much darker, redbrown area at the tip. The latter may be absent, the moth appearing uniformly light brown, as in the females, with only a slightly darker oblique markings distinguishing the area at the tip of the wing. Females have a forewing length of 7-13 mm, and colour varies from a uniform light brown, with almost no distinguishing markings.

Larval first instar has a dark brown head, while all other instars have a light fawn head and prothoracic plate (plate behind head). Overwintering larva are darker, while the mature larva is medium green with a darker green central stripe and two side stripes. Pupae are at first green, but become medium brown after rapid hardening.

Rule for control

Every occupier of an unmanaged pipfruit production site in Hawke’s Bay is required to control Lightbrown apple moth (Leafroller) (Epiphyas postvittana) on their land once thirty (30) Lightbrown apple moths are caught in any one Lightbrown apple moth pheromone trap on their land from 15^th December until fruit harvest.

A breach in this rule is an offence under section 154 of the Biosecurity Act 1993.

Occupiers of pipfruit production sites are therefore required to monitor for and control Lightbrown apple moth.

5.0 Flowchart - implementing the Operational Plan

Text Box: Affected party notices increased phytosanitary management inputs in vicinity of suspected unmanaged production site

Text Box: Issue discussed with offending neighbour

No resolution

Text Box: Satisfactory resolution achieved through an industry recognised management strategy being implemented by the land owner

Affected party monitors increased management inputs

and reports issue to local independent third party (eg HBFGA).

No further action

Independent third party advises affected grower on what needs to be monitored and what data will be needed

Crop dependent monitoring advice checklist

Monitoring over next month shows clear difference in management inputs to previous 3 years data from affected production site

Independent third party advises landowner that production site meets the criteria as an ‘abandoned production site’ and gives 14 calendar days notice to reach a satisfactory conclusion with affected neighbours. At the end of the 14 calendar days the case will be handed to the HBRC for action under their Regional Plan.

Independent third party assesses checklist and agrees with affected party regarding impact and notifies HBRC of the issue by fully supported letter

HBRC action

6.0 Occupiers Responsibilities

All occupiers of pipfruit production sites are expected to monitor for and control phytosanitary pests over their property.

Following an increase in presence of pests the affected occupier will contact the occupier of the adjacent unmanaged pipfruit production site to seek agreement that they will control phytosanitary pests on their land in accordance with the Regional Phytosanitary Pest Management Plan management regime.

When the adjacent pipfruit production site occupier does not agree to control phytosanitary pests, the affected occupier may contact Hawke’s Bay Fruit Grower’s Association advising them of the problem when monitoring confirms:

· There is a clear difference in the management inputs required to control Phytosanitary pests compared to the previous three years.

· Or monitoring results indicate that the Phytosanitary pest outbreak is more severe along the boundary with the adjacent unmanaged pipfruit production site.

7.0 Hawke’s Bay Fruit Growers Responsibility

Hawke’s Bay Fruit Growers Association has the following responsibilities:

· Determining whether the adjacent pipfruit production site occupier has been affected by an increase of the presence of Phytosanitary Pests.

· Assessing monitoring data on the affected managed pipfruit production site to confirm there is a clear difference in the management inputs required to control the phytosanitary pests compared to the previous three years, and/or that the pest outbreak is more severe along the boundary with the adjacent unmanaged pipfruit production site.

· Advising the occupier of the unmanaged pipfruit production site that a complaint has been received regarding their inaction to control phytosanitary pests on the their land, and that Hawke’s Bay Fruit Growers Association are now investigating the issue in accordance with this operational plan and the Hawke’s Bay Regional Phytosanitary Pest Management Plan.

· Investigating and seeking agreement for the control of phytosanitary pests.

· Advising the occupier of the unmanaged pipfruit production site(s), that they are deemed to be an exacerbator of phytosanitary pests.

· Assisting occupiers to reach an agreement regarding the control of phytosanitary pests within 14 days, and providing technical support to monitor that the necessary control measures are undertaken.

8.0 Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Responsibilities

HBRC will direct and enforce the provisions of the Regional Phytosanitary Pest Management Plan when all steps have been taken to reach a satisfactory agreement by an independent third party (eg Hawke’s Bay Fruit Grower’s Association), and a satisfactory conclusion has not been achieved.

9.0 Management Options for Controlling Phytosanitary Pests

There are three management options proposed for the control of Phytosanitary Pests:

· The occupier of the pipfruit production site manage at their cost the phytosanitary pests on their land in accordance with current pipfruit industry pest management best practice for either organic or integrated fruit production.

· The occupier of an unmanaged pipfruit production site allows an affected adjacent pipfruit production site to manage their pipfruit production site in a manner that reduces the level of risk. Costs of control are to be agreed between the two occupiers.

· The occupier of an unmanaged pipfruit production site, at no cost to adjacent managed pipfruit sites, removes their pip fruit trees.

10.0 Enforcement

When a satisfactory conclusion cannot be reached between occupiers HBRC will consider a detailed report prepared by Hawke’s Bay Fruit Growers Association on the unmanaged pipfruit production site.

When a landowner does not adhere to the requirements of the Regional Phytosanitary Pest Management Plan, an authorised person may issue directions for the control of Phytosanitary Pests under Section 122 (Notice of Direction) of the Biosecurity Act 1993.

On default, HBRC may arrange for the work to be carried out and recover the costs from the land occupier under sections 128 of the Biosecurity Act 1993 (Notice of Intention to Act on Default) and section 129 of the Biosecurity Act 1993 (Liens).

Criteria for enforcement is set out in each rule for each Phytosanitary Pest. Notices will be set out as per the rule in the Regional Phytosanitary Pest Management Plan.

HAWKE’S BAY REGIONAL COUNCIL

Environment and Services Committee

Wednesday 11 June 2014

SUBJECT: River Gravel Update

Reason for Report

1. This report is to update the Environment and Services Committee on progress with the Review of Riverbed Gravel Management. This is review being managed by the Engineering Section as part of the Gravel Management Project (Project 369).

Background

2. Gravel extraction forms an integral part of ongoing flood protection to both the Heretaunga and Ruataniwha Plains scheme areas, with gravel being extracted such that the flood capacity of the schemes is maintained, and the potential for the rivers to undermine edge protection is minimised.

3. The Hawke’s Bay river-borne gravel resource is increasingly under pressure for construction use particularly in the proximity of the Heretaunga Plains where the transport cost to the main centres is significantly less than gravel sourced further away.

4. The majority of the easily accessible rivers are now effectively managed through the process of targeted gravel extraction. However gravel stocks are limited in many of the areas closest to the market and as a result pressure is placed on gravel extractors to win their resource at greater distances (eg Ruataniwha Plains rivers) from their markets putting pressure on their competitiveness.

5. With the understandable reluctance to source gravel from further afield due to the high transport costs there is a risk that gravel management for flood control purposes in these areas will become an expense on scheme ratepayers that may be unaffordable.

6. In addition there is increasing concern being expressed by the public that river gravel extraction is aggravating coastal erosion, particularly in Haumoana and Te Awanga. More research being undertaken to fully understand and manage the potential effects.

7. The Asset Management section believes it is imperative for Council to have an effective framework for the ongoing management of the gravel resource within the region, supported by robust science and processes. This was the subject of a paper to Council on 09 November 2010 where a scoping report was presented that outlined the issues and proposed a way forward.

8. The scoping report identified the issues associated with the current management of the region’s river bed gravel resource that when completed would:

8.1. Improve Council’s understanding of riverbed gravel transport and the impact of gravel extraction on flood protection works and coastal processes.

8.2. Enable Council to review its management regime for assessing the gravel resource and for managing its extraction.

8.3. Examine the future demand for the resource working with the extraction industry.

8.4. Inform co-management discussions with regard to the gravel resource and its management with Treaty Claimant Groups.

9. The scoping report adopted by Council included a prioritised programme of work that could be accommodated in a 6 year time span. This 2013/2014 financial year is the third year of the programme. Completion is programmed for 2016/2017.

10. In order to carry out the review and obtain a wide view of community concerns and ideas on the gravel resource a number of meetings have been arranged, (and are ongoing) to discuss the issues. A separate meeting was held with the key people in the gravel supply industry to hear their views as they have a different perspective on the resource than other interested parties. These meetings with the industry are continuing as they are a vital part of gravel management.

11. A meeting has been held with DOC, Fish & Game and the TLA’s. A hui was widely advertised and held at Kohupatiki Marae to inform and discuss with hapu associated with the rivers the issues relating to gravel management. In addition a number of specialists working in the fields of coastal and river gravel processes have been interviewed for their expert knowledge.

12. HBRC has a number of responsibilities that have a direct bearing on the management of gravel resources in the region:

12.1. It has the jurisdiction to manage and authorise activities in riverbeds

12.2. It has the jurisdiction to manage and authorise activities in the coastal area

12.3. It has responsibility for flood control and protection of assets.

13. There is an ongoing demand for gravel and aggregate for a range of activities in the roading and construction industry. There is a need to balance the allocation of gravel between supply demand and the need to maintain the flood capacity of flood protection schemes. This balance should also take account of the environmental effects of gravel extraction, Māori views and the river ecology.

14. Extensive flood protection schemes have been established throughout the Heretaunga Plains and the Ruataniwha Plains, managed by HBRC. These schemes are currently designed and constructed to a standard (1% Annual Exceedance Probability, AEP). This standard is maintained through maintenance of the channel carrying capacity and design riverbed levels.

15. The main population areas and therefore gravel demand are on the Heretaunga Plains. However the gravel resources are spread between the Northern area, Heretaunga Plains and Ruataniwha Plains. As noted above there is a tension between the gravel supply and the gravel demand areas due to the extra transport costs. This has implications for HBRC’s management of the flood protection schemes as too high a cost to extract the gravel may result in gravel extractors preferring to establish land based sources. HBRC currently has little ability to manage these land based areas, although land based mining is covered in the Hastings District Plan.

16. There is uncertainty over the potential effects of riverbed gravel extraction, specifically in relation to the following aspects:

16.1. Long-term riverbed morphology

16.2. Long-term riverbed gravel supply from the high country

16.3. Sediment supply to the coast and the effect on coastal stability

16.4. Riverbed ecology and biodiversity

16.5. Sites and issues of significance to tangata whenua.

17. The review includes work to investigate and/or quantify these effects and determine what further work, if any is needed to provide HBRC with robust information necessary to manage the gravel resource as well as confirming or otherwise whether the current management regime and processes are appropriate for long term sustainability. The information will improve the understanding of gravel transport and therefore also enhance the understanding for other interested parties.

18. The review is divided into 13 separate but related issues that require investigation. The order presented in the table below begins with the highest priority first and some of the later issues are dependent on the outcome and/or data from the earlier studies. Rough order costs to carry out the work have been assigned to each issue. In addition there are annual costs associated with Tangata Whenua involvement and a steering group.

	Issue	Total Indicative cost	Stage	Current Status
1	Hydrological Review	$40,000	Stage 1	Complete
2	Gravel Supply & Transport	$110,000		In Progress
3	Gravel Resource Inventory	$60,000
4	Implications for Flood Protection	$40,000
5	Gravel Demand & Forecast	$30,000
6	Gravel Monitoring & Resource Availability	$40,000
7	In-stream Ecological Effects	$75,000	Stage 2	In Progress
8	Riverbed Birds & Flora	$45,000		In Progress
9	Tangata Whenua Values	$20,000		Ongoing
10	Effectiveness of Beach-raking	$40,000	Stage 2	Complete
11	RMA Issues	$30,000	Stage 3 (RMA issues sooner)
12	Allocation & Financial Mechanisms	$30,000	Stage 3 (RMA issues sooner)
13	Riverbed Gravel Management Plan	$75,000	Final Stage
	Total	$635,000
	Tangata Whenua consultation	$10,000/year		Ongoing
	Steering Group	$10,000/year		Ongoing

19. The terms of reference for the review were to consider the costs spread over a number of years at about $100,000 per year. This of course is subject to a suitable source of funding and could be expanded or reduced to suit. At present 6 years is the time period considered. A work programme has been prepared to enable each of these issues to be studied and reported on in a final report by 2017.

20. Possible options for funding the work were discussed with gravel extractors and Council. The option chosen to fund the work is from increased Resource Management charges currently levied on a per cubic metre rate on all river bed gravel extracted. With the previous level of extraction averaging approximately 600,000 cubic metres per annum this required an increase of the levy charged from $0.60/m³ to approximately $0.80/m³.

21. In the past year gravel extraction from the region’s rivers has reduced significantly as the market demand has dropped off. There are two consequences of this if the trend continues;

21.1. The lesser consequence is that funding to continue the research will need to be topped up from another source or the programme will need to be extended. This latter action is least preferred owing to the urgent nature of some of the issues.

21.2. The more serious consequence with reduced demand is that gravel build-up in the rivers will be a problem for the flood protection system. Already some river reaches in the Ruataniwha Plains (e.g. Makaretu River) have excessive gravel deposits causing problems.

22. Staff will give a short presentation to Councillors outlining the research done to date, highlighting some of the more pertinent findings and provide some comment on future work.

Decision Making Process

23. This paper is to update Council on a programme of work that has already been approved and as such no decisions are required to be made. Likewise there are no recommendations to consider.

Recommendation

1. That the Environment and Services Committee receives the report “Gravel Resource Review: Update”.

Gary Clode

Manager Engineering

Mike Adye

Group Manager

Asset Management

Attachment/s

There are no attachments for this report.

HAWKE’S BAY REGIONAL COUNCIL

Environment and Services Committee

Wednesday 11 June 2014

SUBJECT: Update on Open Space Area Plans

Reason for Report

1. To provide an update on HBRC’s Individual Park Plan review process covering Pekapeka, Pakowhai, Waitangi and Tutira Regional Parks.

2. To update Council on potential park developments.

Background

HBRC Regional Park Network Plan

3. At its meeting on 20 November 2013 the Environment and Services Committee (E&SC) adopted the Regional Park Network Plan (RPNP) as the guiding document for managing and improving HBRC’s open space / regional park assets.

4. The RPNP recognises the evolution of HBRC open space from areas of limited public use (often acquired for reasons other than to become parks), to areas of increasing public use and community value. The RPNP identifies some of our open space as regional parks, reflecting what they have become and acknowledging the need to manage them collectively.

5. By HBRC definition a regional park is “an area of land recognized for its natural, cultural & heritage and recreation value, or other reason, and under administration of the HBRC”.

Individual Park Plan Review

6. A requirement of the RPNP is to draft 10 year Individual Park Plans to guide the management, maintenance and development of each regional park asset.

7. At the November 2013 meeting it was identified that a program of management plan review had commenced and that Council endorsement for these plans would be sought during the 2014 calendar year.

8. This paper provides an update on where the Individual Park Plan review process is at.

Open Spaces Projects and Funding

9. On 6 March 2008 Council resolved to establish a $7.5m borrowing facility for the purposes of funding projects identified in Council’s Open Space programme and also to fund capital projects of regional significance under the Community Facilities Fund criteria.

10. There is approximately $800,000 available in that borrowing facility.

11. At the November 2013 meeting, Council agreed not to commit that money to additional projects. This money could then be available to fund an expansion of the Regional Parks Network or improvements within existing open space areas.

Discussion
Individual Park Plan Components

12. Individual Park Plans consist of a narrative, asset management spreadsheet, recreation activity summary and status (encouraged, limited, discouraged), existing inventory and concept development plans. The narrative includes a brief overview of the park as well as detail on the park values, vision and management objectives. The asset management spreadsheet sets out management, maintenance and proposed capital development items and associated costs over a 10 year period. These are to be prioritised on the basis of community interest/response, need and added value.

13. The intent of the concept development plans is to provide vision for each park to enable individual initiatives within each park to be developed consistently and in alignment with the overarching Regional Parks Network Plan. It is not the intent that all or any proposed developments are to occur in any one financial year. Developments are proposed on the basis that capital works may be completed

13.1. when funds are allocated by Council or

13.2. when funds are raised through external sources.

14. The fundamental point is that when development does occur it is completed to an approved park plan.

Individual Park Plan Review Progress

15. Individual Park Plans are in draft for Pekapeka, Pakowhai and Waitangi Regional Parks.

16. Consultation has been undertaken on the draft plan for Pekapeka Wetland including kaitiaki from Pakipaki, Forest and Bird (Hastings - Havelock North), Department of Conservation, Fish and Game New Zealand and Kiwirail. These groups are generally supportive of the project and draft plan.

17. Public and visitors to the wetland have been invited to provide comment and feedback on the wetland restoration and the draft plan. While formal feedback has been limited (2 responses), what has been received is supportive. The most common informal comment or request is for the installation of a toilet and rubbish bin at the interpretation site.

18. Cost estimates have yet to be completed.

19. The drafting of an Individual Park Plan for Tutira Regional Park is on hold. Preliminary scoping work was undertaken, however, on request and advice from the Maungaharuru Tangitu Trust (MTT), drafting is on hold until such a time MTT can appropriately engage in the project. This is likely to be September 2014. Initially, staff were looking to include Lake Tutira within the “Tutira Regional Park” boundary. This is now unlikely due to the complexities of land ownership surrounding Lake Tutira.

20. The table below provides an overview of the Individual Park Plan review process covering plan drafting, consultation, capital development & maintenance costing, Council approval and plan implementation.

21. At the meeting staff will deliver a presentation outlining some of the key issues associated with each Park and the draft vision for each of them

Regional Park	Draft IPP	Consultation	Costing / funding	Council Approval	Implementation
Pekapeka Wetland	95% complete	complete	Due September 2014	8^th October 2014	TBC
Pakowhai Country Park	80% complete	July / August 2014	Due September 2014	8^th October 2014	TBC
Waitangi Wetlands	80% complete	July / August 2014	Due September 2014	8^th October 2014	TBC
Tutira Country Park	20% complete	Late 2014	Late 2014	TBC	TBC

Park Maintenance Requirement

22. Funding priority should be given to maintaining and protecting existing park assets. This includes:

22.1. maintaining park infrastructure (pathways, tables, seats, signage, fencing, carparks)

22.2. plant and animal pest control

22.3. community engagement provision

22.4. maintaining plantings (restorative, conservation, investment, enhancement, amenity)

22.5. providing for capital expenditure to protect, promote and enhance park values

funding depreciation of the park assets

Potential Park Development

23. Potential park developments are based on historical management objectives, ecological monitoring recommendations, anecdotal feedback and consultation where completed.

24. The table below identifies key potential developments.

Regional Park	Key Potential Developments
Pekapeka Wetland	- Land acquisition & enhancement (Waireporepo Pa, northern carpark, southern secondary arrival area) - Island Pa site enhancement - Toilet installation - Western wetland enhancement (community provision) - Northern walkway & carpark (loop track) - Native planting program around perimeter of wetland (community provision) - Update / replace / install signage (interpretive and gateway) - Open water and bittern habitat enhancement (northern end) - Resource consent for aerial application of selective herbicide - Landscape predator control program
Pakowhai Country Park	- Park expansion / land aquisition - Walkway bridge abutment protection - Installation of stream crossing structure for dogs near bridge approaches - Service track relocation - Lake creation near the old Raupare bridge - Entrance and parking reconfiguration in conjunction with HDC - Foot bridge (Raupare Stream) - Planting Program (community provision) - Update interpretive and gateway signage - Establishment of dog agility area and infrastructure - Pedestrian overbridge (over Pakowhai Rd linking Ruahapia with the park)
Waitangi Wetlands	- Upgrade / replace vehicle barriers onto the beach at East Clive - Upgrade Richmond Rd primary arrival area (carpark) - Upgrade Ferry Rd secondary arrival area - Upgrade Awatoto primary arrival area - Coastal erosion control planting program (Muddy Creek wetland protection) - Amenity and restoration planting program (community provision) - Signage installation (gateway, interpretive and educational)
Tutira Country Park	- To be confirmed

Decision Making Process

25. Council is required to make a decision in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act). Staff have assessed the requirements contained in Part 6 Sub Part 1 of the Act in relation to this item and have concluded the following:

25.1. The decision does not significantly alter the service provision or affect a strategic asset.

25.2. The use of the special consultative procedure is not prescribed by legislation.

25.3. The decision does not fall within the definition of Council’s policy on significance.

25.4. No persons affected by this decision.

25.5. Options will be considered as part of the development of each individual park plan.

25.6. The decision is not inconsistent with an existing policy or plan.

25.7. Given the nature and significance of the issue to be considered and decided, and also the persons likely to be affected by, or have an interest in the decisions made, Council can exercise its discretion and make a decision without consulting directly with the community or others having an interest in the decision.

Recommendation

26. That the Environment and Services Committee receives the report.

27. That the Environment and Services Committee recommends that Council:

27.1. Agrees that the decisions to be made are not significant under the criteria contained in Council’s adopted policy on significance and that Council can exercise its discretion under Sections 79(1)(a) and 82(3) of the Local Government Act 2002 and make decisions on this issue without conferring directly with the community and persons likely to be affected by or to have an interest in the decision due to the nature and significance of the issue to be considered and decided.

27.2. Notes that the development of Individual Park Plans for Pakowhai, Pekapeka and Waitangi Regional Park areas is well advanced and that the final plans are programmed to be brought to Council for endorsement following public consultation later in 2014.

27.3. Notes that the development of an Individual Park Plan for Tutira will be progressed in conjunction with Maungaharuru – Tangitu Trust later in 2014.

Steve Cave

Manager, Open Space Development

Mike Adye

Group Manager Asset Management

Attachment/s

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The Tukituki, Waitangi and Ahuriri: Assessment of the Extent of Saltwater Influence in Hawke's Bay Estuaries

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1 Introduction

Estuaries form a transition zone (ecotone) between saline and fresh waters. Over tidal cycles, saline water moves through estuaries and river mouth openings, the larger the tidal coefficient (amplitude of the tide), the further the saltwater pushes inland. Due to the density differences between saltwater and freshwater, the saltwater often moves upstream in the form of a wedge, with the denser saltwater pushing underneath the fresh. Temperature differences between cooler seawater and river water reinforce density differences during the summer period. As the freshwater flow decreases, the wedge becomes longer and sharper, as flow increases, the wedge becomes shorter and blunter until the freshwater pushes the saltwater back toward the estuary mouth. In addition to flow, the extent of saltwater influence in estuaries is affected by four processes that determine the influence of physical characteristics of an estuary on the tidal wave (Rijn 2010). These are:

§ amplification (or shoaling) of the tidal wave as it is compressed as the width and depth of the estuary decrease (convergence)

§ reduction in the velocity of the tidal wave due to bottom friction

§ deformation of the tidal wave leading to high tide occurring as a sharp transient event, whereas low tide occurs as a long, smooth event

§ partial reflection of the tidal wave by abrupt changes in the depth of the estuary or at the landward end of the estuary (in the absence of a river).

Other meteorological factors can also affect the extent of saltwater influence. Strong winds can push the salt water in shallow estuaries. Strong onshore winds and large swells can create a ‘storm surge’ effect where the sea level, and hence tide level, is higher than it normally would be. Similarly, low barometric pressure can cause an increase in water depth – tide heights are estimated for a standard, 1013 hectopascals (hPa) pressure, and for every decrease in pressure by of 1 hPa below the standard, tide height may be expected to increase by about 1 cm^{^[2]}.

Estuaries are highly productive areas (P. Meire (2005)) driven by the constant supply of nutrients provided by freshwater inputs. This productivity is not realised in an especially large diversity of species but rather through large numbers of individuals and a high biomass. These species include both freshwater and marine species living at the maximum extent of their distribution areas, as well as estuary-specific species. The distribution of species has been highly correlated with salinity (J. Maes 1998). This high productivity results in a high biomass of algae and phytoplankton, which in turn attract a large number of invertebrates, fish and birds. Retaining the natural balance in these areas is important to maintain the feeding and reproductive cycles of many species.

Additionally, the extent of saltwater penetration into rivers can have some important implications for jurisdictional issues, claims under the Foreshore and Seabed Act (2004), and administration of the Resource Management Act (1991).

The extent of saline penetration in most New Zealand estuaries and rivers is largely unknown. Within Hawke’s Bay, extensive work has been undertaken to describe these zones, so that change driven either by Council managed activities (such as those regulated through the resource consent process), or natural events (e.g. climate change, change in shape and extent of the estuary following an unusual hydrological event) may be detected. The current report provides a specific benchmark or reference point in time against which change over time may be assessed.

1.1 Project objectives

This project will:

§ Describe the spatial extent of Hawke’s Bay estuarine and riverine transition areas;

§ Monitor transition zones over time to provide an understanding of temporal change;

§ Provide information regarding transitional zones to better target monitoring of activities that may affect flora and fauna in these areas.

1.2 Statutory context

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council (HBRC) has a responsibility under the Resource Management Act (1991) for the sustainable management of the coastal area. Sections 6 and 7 of the RMA outline the matters of national importance, and include the ‘preservation of natural character’ and ‘Maintenance and enhancement of the quality of the environment’.

HBRC has demonstrated commitment to increasing knowledge regarding the region's coastal resources by funding investigation of estuarine processes (including saltwater influence) over the life of the current long-term plan (Level of Service Statement, LTCCP 2009-2019).

2 Methodology

Odyssey conductivity loggers (manufactured by Dataflow Systems Pty. Ltd.) were deployed in selected estuaries in order to collect time series data that describe changes in salinity at fixed points in the estuaries and to provide a spatial characterisation of the saline transition zone. Water was classified as fresh, brackish or salt as according to the Venice Classification System (Table 2‑1).

Table 2‑1: The Venice Classification System.

Salinity (ppt)	Conductivity (mS/cm)	Classification
< 0.5	1.2	Fresh water
0.5 – 30	1.2 – 46	Brackish water
>30	>46	Salt water

2.1 Site selection

Prior to logger deployment, an initial survey of the estuary was conducted. Firstly, aerial or satellite photos were inspected to see if there was an indication of where the deeper channels may lie. Secondly, a physical reconnaissance of the estuary was conducted at high tide, on a large tidal coefficient, by either kayak or boat. Using a field conductivity meter, the extent of saltwater influence at the time of survey was ascertained in order to guide placement of the loggers. A survey of the types of shoreline vegetation gave further indications regarding the extent of saltwater penetration.

Once the initial survey was completed, conductivity loggers were deployed at the pre-determined sites on the estuary. The location of the sites was determined by several factors:

§ Existence of previous conductivity data.

§ Water depth: the dense salt water moves up the channel that defines the deepest parts of the estuary (thalweg); to ascertain the maximum extent of saltwater influence, the loggers need to be deployed in the thalweg, where practicable.

§ Proximity to areas of interest such as tributaries and potential Inanga spawning sites.

§ Distance from the estuary mouth: placement of the loggers at even distances from the estuary mouth allows for better interpolation of the data.

§ Location of suitable attachment points. The loggers were attached in a variety of ways: to manmade structures (bridges/whitebait stands); to logs and root systems; anchored by concrete blocks both freestanding and tethered to the bank. Loggers were attached approximately 30 cm above the river bed in locations where they were permanently covered by water.

2.2 Deployment

The loggers were deployed under low flow conditions with high tidal coefficients (spring tides) which are believed to be the optimum conditions for determining the maximum extent of the saltwater influence. The loggers were deployed in the Tukituki Estuary once, and the larger Ahuriri and Waitangi Estuaries twice. This was because of the size and complexity of the latter two estuaries. Each deployment encompassed at least two periods of spring tides that coincided with low flows. A tide was designated a spring tide when the depth of water under high water conditions exceeded 1.7 meters.

While every effort was made to map the maximum extent of the saltwater influence, the many influencing variables involved means that it is possible the saline water could intrude further into these estuaries than was observed during the periods of study. Events such as large swells, strong onshore winds and low barometric pressure can create ‘storm surge’ conditions where tidal height dramatically exceeds the forecast height, leading to an increase in the extent of saltwater influence. The present study is considered to describe the typical extent of saltwater influence.

Similarly, it is not possible to map the ultimate minimum extent of saltwater influence, because river conditions necessary (e.g. flood conditions with high velocity flows) would probably lead to loss of loggers.

The extent of saltwater influence recorded during this investigation has been mapped on an estuary by estuary basis. The current report details work completed on the Tukituki, Waitangi and Ahuriri Estuaries (see Figure 2-1).

Figure 2-1: Map showing the location of estuaries within Hawke's Bay.

The red points denote the estuaries that have been included in this study to date, the yellow points are estuaries that will be mapped during future surveys.

2.3 Data analysis

The data retrieved from the conductivity loggers was analysed using ArcGIS. Data were interpolated to provide a conductivity gradient for each estuary at the time of maximum and minimum saltwater influence.

Spearman correlations were determined using Statistica V.11. These allow the influence of tidal height and flow/rainfall on conductivity readings to be determined at sites where saline or brackish water was recorded. The amount of data available for the correlations was restricted by the tidal height information. The tide data utilised^{^[3]} gives only the time of the point of lowest and highest tide, whereas the conductivity and flow data were collected at 15 minute intervals. Therefore the median conductivity and flow values for a six hour period (three hours either side of the tide time) were calculated and these values were used for the correlations rather than the raw data.

Tidal influx is often delayed in estuarine systems relative to the adjacent coastline. Typically the delay for the tidal wave to reach a point in an estuary increases with distance from the estuary mouth. This delay was accounted for at each logger site by first examining the conductivity and tide height data graphically to ascertain any lag between peak conductivity readings and time of high tide. Where necessary, the high tide time was then adjusted to be synchronised with peak conductivity readings. This temporal adjustment was confirmed using the Spearman correlation - adjustment was accepted if the adjusted tide time provided a higher correlation coefficient (r).

The correlation coefficient (r) describes the relationship between conductivity and either flow or tide height. The correlation coefficient can have a value of between 1 and -1. A negative value means that as either flow or tidal height increase, conductivity tends to decrease. A positive value means that as flow or tidal height increases, conductivity tends to increase also. The closer the correlation coefficient is to either 1 or -1, the stronger the relationship. The p value describes whether this relationship is statistically significant. The relationship is significant when p < 0.05.

3 Tukituki Estuary

The Tukituki River is the fourth largest river in the region in terms of average flows. (Hume 2013), determined that residence times of waters within the estuary are short and characterised the estuary as essentially an extension of the river that is tidally influenced. The river bed within the estuary is predominantly gravel, with a relatively steep gradient.

Conductivity loggers were deployed at five sites (Figure 3-1) in the Tukituki Estuary between 24/01/12 and 24/02/12. These loggers were attached to concrete blocks placed on the river bed.

The initial survey indicated that saltwater intruded as far as site 3 (1.8 m tide). The logger at site 4 was placed in the thalweg where there was rapid flow and was not expected to log any saline or brackish water. Bankside vegetation could not be used as an indicator of the extent of saltwater influence because the area is highly modified and characterized by introduced grasses, willows and poplars. The saline and fresh water appeared to be highly stratified, with the saltwater confined to the thalweg and minimal mixing with the upper freshwater layer. Visual observations of the water clarity appeared to be the best indicator of saline water, which was much more turbid than the freshwater.

Figure 3-1: Tukituki estuary logger deployment sites.

The hydrographic flow site at Red Bridge, approximately 10 km upstream of the estuary was used to estimate river flow (m³/sec) data at the estuary. There is limited inflow between the Red Bridge site and the river mouth.

The loggers were deployed during a period of low flow (~ 12 m³/sec) that lasted for two and a half weeks before the flow increased to over 50 m³/sec on the 20/02/12. The loggers were retrieved three days later because of concerns they would be buried by gravel or swept away. The logger at site 0 malfunctioned, however field observations at this site indicated that it would be subject to saltwater under all conditions. Sites 3 and 4 recorded brackish water at certain periods, and sites 1 and 2 recorded saltwater the majority of the time. Further observations were taken during periods of low flow (~ 5 m³/sec) at the ‘Field Observation Site’ using a field meter. Conductivity readings of 36 mS/cm (brackish – saltwater) were recorded here in 1.2 m water depth. Of particular interest at this site was a localized phytoplankton bloom of Cryptomenas sp. collected from the saline part of the water column (see Appendix 1 for laboratory report).

3.1 Results

ArcGIS was used to interpolate the data from the Odyssey loggers and generate graphical images of the maximum (Figure 3-2) and minimum (Figure 3-3) extent of the saltwater influence in the Tukituki Estuary. The maximum extent of saltwater influence was approximately 1 km from the estuary mouth. At present the upper extent of the saltwater influence is bounded by a steep riffle, approximately 100 metres downstream from Black Bridge.

Figure 3-2: Maximum extent of saltwater influence in the Tukituki Estuary.

Figure 3-3: Minimum extent of saltwater influence in the Tukituki Estuary.

The median conductivity was correlated with the median flow data and tidal height (Table 3-1). The estuarine stretch of the Tukituki River is relatively short and straight – accordingly, there is little tidal delay and it was only necessary to adjust the data at Site 4 (Table 3-1).

Table 3-1: Spearman correlation coefficients for the Tukituki Estuary sites.

Figures shown in bold are statistically significant (p<0.05).

	Site	Period of Deployment	Tidal delay	Conductivity vs. Flow	Conductivity vs. Tide height
UPSTREAM	4	24/01/12 – 24/02/12	+ 2 hrs	-0.586	0.101
	3	24/01/12 – 24/02/12	0 hrs	-0.676	0.105
	2	24/01/12 – 24/02/12	0 hrs	-0.616	0.393
DOWNSTREAM	1	24/01/12 – 24/02/12	0 hrs	-0.478	0.469

Flow was significantly negatively correlated with conductivity at all sites (Table 3-1). These correlations are quite high for the natural environment and suggest a strong relationship between an increase in flow and a decrease in conductivity. The increase in flow required to reduce the influence of saltwater to all sites was quite similar (between 35 and 45 m³/s) (see Figure 3-4). Tide height had a strong positive correlation with conductivity at the lower sites but no relationship at the upstream sites (Table 3-1). This suggests flow limits conductivity at the upstream sites, while both flow and tide height have a combined influence closer to the estuary mouth.

The increasing influence of saltwater closer to the estuary mouth can be seen in Figure 3-5. At the upstream sites (3 & 4), only brackish water was present on the largest tidal coefficients with corresponding low flows. As might be expected, salinity was highest at the sites closest to the mouth, and the point of highest salinity more frequently coincided with the high tide.

Site 4		Upstream
Site 3
Site 2
Site 1		Downstream

Figure 3-4: Scatter plot of median flow (X) and median conductivity (Y) for the Tukituki Estuary.

The Tukituki, Waitangi and Ahuriri: Assessment of the Extent of Saltwater Influence in Hawke's Bay Estuaries

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4 Waitangi Estuary

The Waitangi Estuary is the common mouth of the Tutaekuri River (north), Ngarururo River (centre) and Clive River (south), and is the only multi-river estuary in Hawke’s Bay. The rivers feeding into the Waitangi Estuary have been extensively modified. Each river channel appears to have characteristics that effect the extent of saltwater influence uniquely.

Conductivity loggers were deployed within the Waitangi Estuary from the 18/12/12 to the 24/01/13 and from the 27/02/13 till the 16/04/13 (Figure 4-1). The loggers were deployed using a variety of methods, including attachment to concrete blocks, whitebait stands, logs and the Brookfields Bridge. Despite efforts to conceal the loggers, several were lost due to vandalism.

The initial survey of the estuary found saltwater penetration 100 metres downstream of site 1T on the Tutaekuri River, to site 2N on the Ngarururo River and to site 1C on the Clive River. Similar to the Tukituki Estuary, the banks of the Waitangi are highly modified with only replanted remnants of native vegetation, and the waters are similarly stratified, making it difficult to visually determine the extent of saltwater influence. Once again water clarity provided a better indication of the saline content of the water. On retrieval of the loggers on the 16/04/13, a large phytoplankton bloom was observed around logger site 3N. The bloom was dominated by Cryptomonas sp, which can be fresh or saltwater species (see Appendix 1 for laboratory report). This bloom was confined to the saline part of the water and may therefore be a saline species.

Figure 4-1: Waitangi estuary logger deployment sites.

Red points denote sites were logger data was correlated against flow and tide height; white points denote sites of previous logger deployment

During the primary period of deployment there was one rain event around the 26/12/13 that increased flows in all the rivers. The second period of deployment was during extreme low flow conditions. The purpose of the primary deployment was to coarsely identify the extent of saline penetration into the estuary. The second deployment focused on the areas of furthest extent of saline water found during the primary deployment to increase the resolution at this level.

The different physical attributes of these rivers (e.g., depth of thalweg, meanders, flow etc.) mean that the saltwater influence into each is different. The estuary was treated as a single system for the GIS interpolation but correlations were conducted separately for each river.

The maximum extent of saltwater influence in the Waitangi Estuary was approximately 5.2 km in the Ngarururo River), 2.5 km in the Tutaekuri River and 4.1 km into the Clive River (Figure 4-2).

Figure 4-2: Maximum extent of saltwater influence in the Waitangi Estuary.

The minimum extent of saltwater influence in the Waitangi Estuary was shorter in the Tutaekuri and Ngarururo arms than the Clive River (Figure 4-3). This is likely due to the larger catchments and greater flows of water in the former that exert a greater pressure on the salt water, particularly during rainfall events .

Figure 4-3: Minimum extent of saltwater influence in the Waitangi Estuary.

4.1 Clive River

The Clive River is the southern-most arm of the Waitangi Estuary. The Clive River follows the original path of the Ngarururo River prior to its channelization. The flows in the Clive River are much smaller than would typically be found in a river channel of this size. As a consequence, flows in the Clive River are slower than the other rivers; this creates a depositional environment – as a consequence, the river bed is characterised by soft sediments and extensive macrophyte growth. Flow measurements from a hydrographic site in the Awanui Stream (one of the tributaries of the Clive River) were used as a proxy for flow conditions in the Clive River.

The maximum extent of saltwater influence in the Clive River was 4.1 km from the mouth.

Data from loggers collected during both periods of deployment were correlated against median flow and tide conditions (Table 4-1).

Table 4-1: Spearman Correlation Coefficients for Clive River sites.

Figures shown in bold are statistically significant (p<0.05).

	Site	Period of Deployment	Tidal delay	Conductivity vs. Flow	Conductivity vs. Tide height
UPSTREAM	3 C	27/02/13– 16/04/13	+ 3 hrs	-0.578	0.047
	2 C	27/02/13– 16/04/13	+ 3 hrs	-0.757	0.093
DOWNSTREAM	1 C	18/12/12- 24/01/13	0 hrs	-0.766	0.213

Flow had a significant negative correlation with conductivity at all sites (Table 4-1). This suggests a strong relationship between an increase in flow and a decrease in conductivity. Towards the estuary mouth a higher flow is required to reduce the influence of saltwater (see Figure 4-4). Tide height had a weak positive correlation with conductivity at Site 1C but no relationship at the upstream sites (Table 4-1). This suggests flow is the deciding factor limiting conductivity at all sites, however at the estuary mouth tidal height additionally has a small positive influence on conductivity levels. At all sites the periods of highest conductivity were associated with the period of highest tidal coefficient (Figure 4-5).

Site 3C		Upstream
Site 2C
Site 1C		Downstream

Figure 4-4: Scatter plot of median flow (X) and median conductivity (Y) for the Clive River.

Site 3C	$Description: M:\E_Science\Projects\313 Coastal WQ R&I\313-202 Saline Transition Zones\Reporting\Graphics\Waitangi\Clive\Site 3 Line.jpg$	Upstream
Site 2C	$Description: M:\E_Science\Projects\313 Coastal WQ R&I\313-202 Saline Transition Zones\Reporting\Graphics\Waitangi\Clive\Site 2 Line.jpg$
Site 1C	$Description: M:\E_Science\Projects\313 Coastal WQ R&I\313-202 Saline Transition Zones\Reporting\Graphics\Waitangi\Clive\Site 1 Line.jpg$	Downstream
Tide Height Median Flow Median Conductivity

Figure 4-5: Line plot of tide height with associated median conductivity (Y1) and median flow (Y2) readings.

Note the different flow values (Y2) between the sites 3C and 2C and the site 1C, corresponding to different periods of deployment.

4.2 Ngarururo River

The Ngarururo River forms the central arm of the Waitangi Estuary. It generally contributes the greatest flow of the three rivers which flow into the Waitangi Estuary. Where the river enters the estuary it is channelised with a deep thalweg. The bed of the estuary is mainly comprised of river gravels.

The hydrographic site at Fernhill was used to measure flow (m³/sec). Flows from 2 – 26 m³ /sec were recorded (annual mean = 33.12 m³/sec). Conductivity data collected from the Odyssey loggers was correlated against flow and tide height (Table 4-2).

The maximum extent of saltwater influence in the Ngarururo River was 5.1 km from the estuary mouth.

Table 4-2: Spearman Correlation Coefficients for Ngarururo River sites.

Figures shown in bold are statistically significant (p<0.05).

	Site	Period of Deployment	Tidal delay	Conductivity vs. Flow	Conductivity vs. Tide height
UPSTREAM	3 N	27/02/13– 16/04/13	+ 3 hrs	-0.563	0.146
	2 N	18/12/12- 24/01/13	+ 2 hrs	-0.247	0.479
	1 N	18/12/12- 24/01/13	0 hrs	-0.289	0.716
DOWNSTREAM	0	18/12/12- 24/01/13	0 hrs	-0.288	0.645

Flow and tidal height have significant negative and positive correlations respectively with conductivity (Table 4-2). Flow had a higher negative correlation at the most upstream site (3 N), suggesting that the influence of flow on the extent of saltwater influence increased with distance from the river mouth. Similarly, the flow rate required to reduce saltwater influence at the lower sites was much higher than that at the upper sites (Figure 4-6). The lower sites had a higher positive correlation with tide height, suggesting that at these sites an increase in tide height had a more important influence on conductivity than flow. At all sites the periods of highest conductivity were associated with the period of highest tidal coefficient (Figure 4-7).

Site 3N		Upstream
Site 2N
Site 1N
Site 0		Downstream

Figure 4-6: Scatter plot of median flow (X) and median conductivity (Y) for the Ngaruroro River.

Site 3N		Upstream
Site 2N
Site 1N
Site 0		Downstream
Tide Height Median Flow Median Conductivity

Figure 4-7: Line plot of tide height with associated median conductivity (Y1) and median flow (Y2) readings.

Note the different flow values (Y2) between the site 3N and the other sites corresponding to different periods of deployment.

4.3 Tutaekuri River

The Tutaekuri River forms the northern arm of the Waitangi Estuary. The Tutaekuri River is the shallowest of the three rivers running into the Waitangi Estuary and the bed is predominantly clean river gravels.

The hydrographic site at Puketapu was used as a proxy for flows into the estuary. Flows ranging between 3 – 25 m³/sec were recorded during the period of logger deployment (annual mean = 11.66 m³/sec).

The maximum extent of saltwater influence in the Tutaekuri River was approximately 2.9 km from the mouth.

Several of the loggers placed in the Tutaekuri River malfunctioned, and the data from these loggers failed quality control checks. Therefore data from only two loggers were used in the assessment.

Table 4-3: Spearman Correlation Coefficients for Tutaekuri River sites.

Figures shown in bold are statistically significant (p<0.05).

Site

Period of Deployment

Tidal delay

Conductivity vs. Flow

Conductivity vs. Tide height

UPSTREAM

27/02/13– 16/04/13

+ 3 hrs

-0.088

0.308

DOWNSTREAM

18/12/12- 24/01/13

0 hrs

-0.288

0.645

Tide height was positively correlated with conductivity at both sites (Table 4-3). This suggests a strong relationship between an increase in tide height and conductivity at site 0, and a moderate relationship at site 1T (Figure 4‑8).

Conductivity was negatively correlated with flow at the downstream site only (Table 4-3). It was expected that the saline wedge would act similarly in the Tutaekuri River as was observed in the other rivers, with the negative correlation of conductivity with flow increasing in an upstream direction. However no significant correlation between flow and conductivity was observed - therefore the scatterplot of flow (X) and conductivity (Y) has not been plotted for this river.

Site 1T		Upstream
Site 0		Downstream

Figure 4‑8: Line plot of tide height with associated median conductivity (Y1) and median flow (Y2) readings.

Note the different flow values (Y2) between the two sites indicating different periods of deployment.

5 Ahuriri Estuary

In a region dominated by alluvial flood plain river mouths, the Ahuriri Estuary (Te Whanganui-a-Orotu) represents one of the few tidal lagoon estuaries in Hawke’s Bay. With an area of 470 ha it is also the region’s largest estuary. Unlike the other estuaries, this estuary also has large areas of associated wetlands (approx. 175 ha) (Madarasz-Smith, 2013).The Ahuriri Estuary also differs from the other estuaries in the area as there are no large riverine inputs. The bed of the estuary comprises of mainly soft sediments and the water depth is generally much shallower than the other estuaries reported here.

Figure 5-1 shows the sites of logger deployment within the estuary. Placement of the loggers was informed by conductivity data collected at a limited number of sites during previous investigations on the estuary (HBRC unpublished) and an initial survey of bankside vegetation. The initial survey of the Ahuriri Estuary used the extent and location of native vegetation, especially the raupo (Typha orientalis) as an indicator of the maximum extent of the saltwater influence.

Figure 5-1: Ahuriri estuary logger deployment sites.

Red points denote sites where logger data was correlated against flow and tide height.

Conductivity loggers were deployed in the Ahuriri Estuary (Figure 5-1) for two periods, first between the 17/08/12 and the 25/09/12 and then between the 23/04/13 and the 6/06/13. During the first deployment, several of the loggers malfunctioned and the data gathered from these loggers failed quality control checks and were therefore not used in the assessment. The second period of deployment was at the end of an extended period of drought. Loggers were attached to existing structures and warratahs driven into the soft sediment.

There was no operational flow site within the Ahuriri Estuary during the time of logger deployment so rainfall at a nearby site (Newstead) was used as a proxy for flow in the estuary. There were two periods of low rainfall during the time of deployment but these seemed to have little effect on conductivity measurements (Figure 5-4).

5.1 Ahuriri Estuary Results

ArcGIS was used to interpolate the logger data and generate graphical images of the maximum (Figure 5-2) and minimum (Figure 5-3) extent of saltwater influence in the Ahuriri Estuary. The maximum extent of saltwater influence into the Ahuriri Estuary was approximately 9.2 km (Figure 5-2).

Figure 5-2: Maximum extent of saltwater influence in the Ahuriri Estuary.

The ArcGIS interpolation for the minimum extent (Figure 5-3) utilised data collected during previous surveys of the estuary and shows the saline water pushed back almost to the mouth of the estuary.

Figure 5-3: Minimum extent of saltwater influence in the Ahuriri Estuary.

Conductivity was not significantly correlated with rainfall at any of the sites (Table 5-1). Due to this lack of correlation the scatter plots of conductivity (Y) and rainfall (X) have not been plotted.

Table 5-1: Spearman Correlation Coefficients for Ahuriri Estuary sites.

Figures shown in bold are statistically significant (p<0.05).

	Site	Period of Deployment	Tidal delay	Conductivity vs. Rainfall	Conductivity vs. Tide height
UPSTREAM	3	23/04/13 – 06/06/13	+ 6 hrs	- 0.089	0.279
	2	23/04/13 – 06/06/13	+ 6 hrs	0.103	0.312
	1	23/04/13 – 06/06/13	+ 3 hrs	0.005	0.339
DOWNSTREAM	0	23/04/13 – 06/06/13	+ 3 hrs	-0.011	0.338

At all sites, conductivity was positively correlated with tide height (Table 5-1). This suggests that tide height is the significant factor influencing the extent of saltwater influence in the Ahuriri Estuary. There was less variation in conductivity readings between the low and high tides (Figure 5-4) than the Tukituki and Waitangi Estuaries due to a higher degree of vertical mixing through the water column, and much smaller inflows of freshwater into the estuary.

Site 3		Upstream
Site 2
Site 1
Site 0		Downstream
Tide Height Median Flow Median Conductivity

Figure 5-4: Line plot of tide height with associated median conductivity (Y1) and median rainfall (Y2) readings.

6 Discussion

The data collected from the Tukituki, Waitangi and Ahuriri Estuaries indicate that the individual estuaries have different salinity regimes, driven largely by their physical characteristics and the magnitude of freshwater inflows.

Data from the Tukituki Estuary indicate that it is the most stratified of the three estuaries. The correlations suggest that flow is the dominant force governing the extent of saltwater influence, with all conductivity values at all sites displaying a stronger relationship with flow than tide height (Table 3-1). Under the conditions encountered, the Tukituki acted as a classic ‘saline-wedge’ estuary (Pritchard, 1989), with the salt water pushing up under the fresh water with little mixing between the two layers. Since flow appears to be the dominant force influencing the extent of saltwater influence at this site, any changes in flow are likely to affect the extent of saltwater influence. However, the relatively steep gradient of the upper Tukituki Estuary appears to act as a physical barrier as the estuary bed rapidly rises above sea level. The bed of the estuary is dynamic and this physical barrier can move up or downstream in responses to changes to the river bed following flood events. During the initial survey it was hoped to use bankside vegetation as an indicator of the extent of saltwater influence; the strong stratification and limited mixing of fresh and saline water has little impact on the vegetation, which only comes into contact with the surface freshwater layer. This is evident in the fact that willows are present almost down to the estuary mouth.

As a common mouth for three river systems, the characteristics of the extent of saltwater influence in the Waitangi Estuary were different in each of the rivers. The Clive River is highly stratified and acted as a ‘saline-wedge’ estuary where flow had a stronger correlation with conductivity than tide height (Table 4-1). In the Ngarururo River although both flow and tide height appeared to strongly influence the extent of saltwater influence (Table 4-2), the water still appeared stratified. The Tutaekuri River, as the shallowest of the three arms of the Waitangi Estuary, did not appear to be as stratified as either the Clive or Ngarururo arms. For the Tutaekuri arm, tide height was significantly correlated with conductivity (Table 4-3). As for the Tukituki Estuary, the Waitangi Estuary is susceptible to changes in low flows affecting the maximum extent of saltwater influence, however, this extent is also bounded by the physical barrier of the river beds rising above sea level.

The Ahuriri Estuary has different physical characteristics to the Tukituki and Waitangi Estuaries. There are no large riverine inputs, and the estuary itself is relatively shallow and meandering with extensive wetlands. The lack of riverine inputs is reflected in the salinity regime, with tide height the significant variable affecting salinity at all sites (Table 5-1). Unlike the Tukituki and Waitangi Estuaries, conductivity remains high in the estuary throughout the tidal cycle (Figure 5-4) (Figure 3-5, Figure 4-5, Figure 4-7). The limited freshwater inflow, generally shallow water and meandering nature of the channel, combined with wind mixing, limit the stratification of the water in the estuary. This lower degree of stratification means that the extent of saltwater influence is more likely to have an impact on the bankside vegetation than in the Waitangi or Tukituki Estuaries.

It is possible that the extent of saltwater influence recorded in the Ahuriri Estuary was unusual as large diebacks of the saltwater intolerant plant raupo were observed upstream of Site 2 during the summer of 2013. The presence of raupo suggests that under typical conditions, saline or brackish water does not travel this far toward the head of the estuary. Another factor that could have caused some of the dieback of the Raupo was input of heavily brackish water (measured at 35 mS/cm) from a pump station 500m up-stream from site 3. The reason for this pump station to be discharging heavily brackish water is unknown but could be due to the disturbance of previously static marine silts or an increased level of seawater ingress into the groundwater due to the drought conditions.

Data collected in the Tukituki and Waitangi Estuaries suggest that Council-managed activities are unlikely to influence the maximum extent of saltwater influence in these estuaries appreciably, because of the dominant effect of the physical barrier caused by the riverbed rising above sea level, regardless of flow. This has the potential to affect the distribution of species that do not have a high degree of salt tolerance. Further monitoring over longer time periods and through different flow conditions is required to verify this. The limited inflow of freshwater into the Ahuriri Estuary means that while it is likely to be less susceptible to changes in low flows than other estuaries, the relatively low gradient makes it more susceptible to issues such as sea level rise caused by global warming.

Initial surveys of the estuaries prior to logger deployment showed that bankside vegetation was of little use as an indicator of the extent of saltwater influence, primarily because these estuaries are generally highly modified (channelised and denuded of native vegetation). An exception was the upper reaches of the Ahuriri Estuary. Secondly, the water in the estuaries (especially the Tukituki and Waitangi Estuaries) is highly stratified, generally confining the saltwater to the deepest parts of the channel (the thalweg), limiting contact with and therefore effect on the bankside vegetation. The best broadscale indicator of the saltwater wedge appeared to be water clarity. Under low flow conditions the river waters appeared less turbid than the associated marine waters. This resulted in a visually identifiable change in the waters that was verified using a field conductivity meter.

The initial surveys of the estuaries, carried out on spring tides (>1.7m), led to under-estimation of the extent of the saltwater influence because of the unexpectedly large delay in the tidal wave reaching the upper parts of the estuaries. Previously the tidal delay in the Ahuriri estuary was believed to be +2.5 hours (Madarasz-Smith, pers. comm.). The data collected during this investigation shows the tidal delay to vary between 3 hrs at Site 0 at the mouth of the Taipo Stream, to as much as 9 hrs at the at the head of the estuary (the maximum extent of saltwater influence). It was only by deploying static continuous recording devices such as those used in this investigation that it was possible to determine the extent of this tidal wave delay.

The interface between saline and freshwater is highly productive, characterised by effects such as phytoplankton blooms (J. Lobry 2003). During these surveys, extensive phytoplankton blooms were observed in the Clive (24/01/13) and Ngarururo (15/04/13) rivers, and small localised blooms were observed in the Tukituki (27/02/13) and Tutaekuri (27/02/13) Rivers. Samples collected from both the Ngarururo and Tukituki Rivers were dominated by Cryptomonas sp. For blooms to persist in estuaries, warm temperatures and stable flow conditions are required. A similar bloom of Cryptomonas sp. was observed by Robertson and Stevens (Stevens 2008) in the upper areas of the Motupipi Estuary (Tasman) which was caused by a combination of excessive nutrient concentrations, a stable salt wedge, warm water temperatures, stable base-flows and limited turbulent mixing. The conditions in the Hawke’s Bay estuaries where blooms occurred generally mirrored the conditions observed in the Motupipi estuary: Water temperatures were high, flows were extremely low and stable, causing little turbulence and a stable salt wedge. These conditions may be regarded as atypical because the region was in the middle of a prolonged drought, with uncharacteristically low flows that persisted over a longer period of time than usual. Under normal conditions when flows are generally higher and more varied, it is unlikely that blooms would have a chance to form. Further study of the extent and frequency of bloom formation in the regions estuaries will be required to understand the dynamics involved, or whether Council-managed activities influence the extent or persistence of these blooms.

Ahuriri Estuary: Contact Recreation and Food Gathering Review

Attachment 2

2 Methods for assessing contact recreation and food gathering risk

2.1 Contact recreation

“Contact recreation” includes any activity that causes people come into contact with water where a reasonable risk of inhaling or ingesting water exists. At times, the suitability of water for recreation may be compromised by the presence of human or animal faecal material resulting from land run-off, discharges or from natural populations of animals or birds. During these events, water may contain pathogens from this faecal matter. The risk of contracting illnesses such as gastro-enteritis, respiratory illnesses, Hepatitis A, giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, campylobacterosis, and salmonellosis increases as the risk of exposure to pathogenic organism increases (MfE and MoH, 2003).

From an aesthetic point of view, water clarity can be an important consideration for people undertaking recreational activities. Although not as important in marine waters which tend to be naturally more turbid, freshwater recreation choice can be influenced by visual clarity.

Visual clarity (determined by black disk visibility), is not generally measured in marine or estuarine waters. Turbidity, a measure of the amount of light scattered or absorbed by particles in the water, is more commonly used in New Zealand coastal water quality monitoring programmes. An inverse relationship can generally be demonstrated between turbidity and visual clarity. Generally, if turbidity meets the requirements for aquatic ecosystems, it is likely to meet the aesthetic value for contact recreation as well.

High algal biomass can influence aesthetic values associated with contact recreation. High algal biomass may reduce the visual clarity of the water by making it more turbid, or by changing the colour of the water, creating ‘murky’ or discoloured water. Human health risk associated with contact recreation may be increased if toxic species are present. Increased nutrient inputs from either land or marine sources can influence (increase) algal biomass growth rates.

Current guidelines for the attributes associated with contact recreation are detailed in Table 2-1.

Table 2-1: Current water quality guidelines associated with contact recreation.

cfu = colony forming units, NTU = Nephelometric turbidity units, BD = black disk.

Attribute	Guideline value¹		Source	Value
Attribute	Satisfactory	Unsatisfactory/ Unacceptable	Source	Value
Enterococci (cfu/100 mL)	<280 cfu/100 mL	>280 cfu/100 mL	(MfE and MoH, 2003)	Human health
Turbidity (NTU)	0.5-10 NTU	>10 NTU	(ANZECC, 2000)	Aquatic ecosystems
Visual clarity (BD)	>1.6 m	<1.6 m	(MfE, 1994)	Aesthetic and safety
Chlorophyll a (g/m³)	<4 µg/L	>4 µg/L	(ANZECC, 2000)1	Aquatic ecosystems
Toxic algal species (cells/mL)	Absent	Present	‑	Human health and aquatic ecosystems

¹These guidelines refer to ANZECC 2000 for South-Eastern Australia which is used in the absence of New Zealand specific estuarine guidance.

2.2 Food gathering

With the exception of overlying water quality, comparatively little information or guidance exists around the risk associated with recreational harvesting of shellfish and fish. Export food safety guidelines are applied in the absence of recreational specific guidelines; however it is acknowledged that this appears to be an area for further work or development.

For shellfish gathering the attributes likely to compromise the ability to collect shellfish include contamination by faecal material that may contain pathogens. Additionally, the ability of shellfish and fish to accumulate contaminants such as trace metals and other industrial and stormwater related toxins, means that these parameters are also used to assess risks associated with food gathering.

Current guidelines for the attributes associated with shellfish/fish gathering are detailed in Table 2-2.

Table 2-2: Current guideline values associated with water and shellfish quality.

MPN = Most Probable Number.

Attribute	Guideline		Source	Relevance
Attribute	Satisfactory	Unsatisfactory/ Unacceptable	Source	Relevance
Faecal coliforms in overlying waters	Seasonal median < 14 MPN/100mL < 10% of samples < 43MPN/100mL	Seasonal median > 14 MPN/100mL > 10% of samples > 43MPN/100mL	(MfE and MoH, 2003)	Human Health
Toxic algal species in overlying waters	Not present	Present	Nil	Human Health and Aquatic Ecosystems
E. coli in shellfish flesh	Median < 230 MPN/100g and < 10% of samples < 700 MPN/100g	Median > 230 MPN/100g and > 10% of samples > 700 MPN/100g	(NZFSA, 1995)	Human Health
Trace metals	Below FSA guidelines	Above FSA guidelines		Human Health

Ahuriri Estuary: Contact Recreation and Food Gathering Review

Attachment 2

3.3 Current state

3.3.1 Faecal bacteria

National guidelines identify concentrations at which the risk of illness associated with contact recreation is no longer considered acceptable (MfE and MoH, 2003). This allows the public to be informed of the health risks, and make informed decisions regarding their exposure to these risks (see Appendix A for an explanation of these guidelines).

The results of routine sampling at the Pandora Pond, the most popular site within the estuary, has provided good quality information regarding the risks associated with contact recreation at this site. The pond is partially enclosed by a barrier arm, creating a hydrodynamic environment that favours exchange of water on the incoming tide (refreshed with saltwater), rather than the outgoing tide (refreshed with freshwater) (Eyre, 2009). These characteristics suggest that this area is likely to be protected from faecal contamination arising from freshwater inflows outside of the pond.

Pandora Pond has been monitored as part of Councils Recreational Water Quality Monitoring programme since 1996. Since the 2008/09 season, the indicator has remained enterococci, allowing trends over time to be established from this date.

During 2012/13, the pond was sampled for enterococci (as an indicator of faecal contamination), electrical conductivity (as a proxy for salinity), turbidity and temperature. During this period the site achieved 90% compliance with MfE and MoH (2003) guidelines, indicating that for 18 out of the 20 weeks sampled, the risk of illness associated with contact recreation at this site was low. For two weeks however, elevated levels of bacteria (>280 cfu/100 mL) meant that the risk of illness was considered ‘unacceptable’ (Figure 3-1). Both of these occasions occurred after periods of significant rain (11 mm 24^th and 25^th December and 9 mm 7^th January), indicating that surface runoff can impact water quality at this site. Given the hydrodynamic regime described above, localised sources should be investigated to determine their role in elevated bacterial concentrations following rainfall events.

Figure 3-1: Levels of bacterial indicator Enterococci at Pandora Pond, Ahuriri during the 2012/2013 recreational season.

Weekly monitoring provides important information regarding the current state of water quality within Pandora Pond. However, the timing of such information limits our ability to assess the public health risk associated with contact recreation because much of the information only becomes available after the period of risk has occurred. This situation arises because the results of analysis only become available 24-36 hours after the samples are collected – during this period, the risk associated with contact recreation is unknown and individuals may be exposed to elevated concentrations of pathogenic organisms. To overcome this limitation, the 2003 guidelines incorporate an approach that couples historical data with a catchment risk assessment to generate a ‘Suitability for Recreation Grade’ (SFRG). The SFRG is designed to provide a general indication of recreational water quality of a water body at any time, rather than in response to the result from a single sampling event.

A suitability for recreation grade for Pandora Pond was generated at the completion of the 2012/13 season:

§ A moderate catchment risk was obtained, indicating potential contamination from sources such as stormwater, rural runoff, birds, land drainage and boat mooring

§ A microbiological assessment category of ‘C’ was obtained, indicating that elevated bacteria concentrations can occur at times

§ Pandora Pond achieved a ‘Fair’ SFRG.

This grading indicates that the area is generally suitable for swimming, although caution should be taken if there has been heavy rainfall, or if the water appears discoloured (MFE and MOH, 2003).

3.3.2 Clarity/Turbidity

Turbidity within the estuary has been assessed for a number of discrete projects over the last decade. The most comprehensive data record exists for the period between 1995 and 1998. These data characterise the water quality of the Ahuriri Estuary and the inflows to the estuary. These data were compared with the results from a previous survey (Hooper (1989)) in Fenton (1997).

The turbidity in waterways flowing in to the Ahuriri Estuary generally exceed guidelines for New Zealand lowland streams (5.4 NTU (ANZECC, 2000); Figure 3-2, left). At times, and within certain sub-catchments, turbidity can be extremely high; however they appear to be somewhat buffered within the estuary with only a few sites exceeding guidelines for marine and estuarine waters (Figure 3-2, right). Typically higher turbidity values are observed in the upper reaches of the estuary (Quarantine and Watchmen Rd), with elevated values at sites in proximity to incoming waterways (e.g. Low level bridge, Tyne Street). In general turbidity in the mid to lower estuary is within, or close to, guideline values for aquatic ecosystems (10 NTU). These values are unlikely to negatively impact on contact recreation except during periods of heavy rainfall, when turbidity may transiently reach values of 130 NTU.

Figure 3-2: Turbidity measured in inflows to the Ahuriri Estuary and within the Ahuriri Estuary n=4-37 Red line = ANZECC trigger levels for aquatic ecosystems for freshwater (left) and estuaries (right).

Figure 3-3: Turbidity levels at Pandora Pond, Ahuriri Estuary between 1999 and 2013. n=20 per annum

The data described above was collected mainly during the period 1995-98, with more recent data restricted to the Pandora Bridge site. The Pandora Pond however has consistently been monitored for turbidity since 1999 as part of the Recreational Water Quality Monitoring programme. With the exception of 2004, no significant increase or decrease in turbidity has been observed (Figure 3-3).

Therefore, the turbidity at the Pandora Pond site does not appear to have significantly changed since 1998.

3.3.3 Algae

Algae, both macroscopic (large, found on the sediment surface), and microscopic (small, plants found within the water column and on the sediment), are normal constituents of a healthy estuarine ecosystem. In areas of high nutrient loading however, algal numbers or cover can become excessive, causing nuisance growths in terms of visual amenity, as well as negatively influencing sediment quality and water chemistry.

Macroalgae

The largely channelised nature of the Ahuriri Estuary minimises the likelihood of prolific algal growths. In depositional areas (where flow is less rapid or obvious), algal growth has generally been restricted to small patches of ephemeral species (e.g. Ulva sp.) during the spring/summer period, persisting at times through to autumn.

Given the nature of the estuary and the moderate sediment nutrient concentrations, prolific algal growth that would adversely affect contact recreation within the lower estuary area (more commonly used for contact recreation) is unlikely.

Chlorophyll a

A few previous studies have detailed the nutrient status of the Ahuriri Estuary waters. These identified that inflows to the estuary have delivered high concentrations of both phosphorus and nitrogen into the main, ‘true’ estuary (Fenton, 1997, Hooper, 1989). Although the estuary has previously been described as eutrophic (Hooper, 1989, Knox, 1979), the decrease in phosphorus concentrations measured between 1989 and 1997 and currently indicate that the trophic state of the waters may have decreased more recently. Conversely, nitrogen concentrations (particularly ammoniacal nitrogen) appear to have increased over the period 1989 – 2013 (Fenton, 1997, Hooper, 1989). The current trophic status of estuarine waters, including the contributions of nutrients from various inflows and land-uses should be investigated further.

That said, chlorophyll a concentrations on estuarine sediments were assessed as part of a specific water quality study in 1998 and 2000 (Figure 3-4). These data can provide important information regarding the relative nutrient status of inflows to the estuary. This work highlighted the role of inflows in determining overall quality of estuarine water.

Figure 3-4: Sediment chlorophyll a concentrations in the Ahuriri Estuary between 1998 and 2000.

More recently, sampling in the Ahuriri Estuary has been undertaken as part of:

§ the Nearshore Coastal Water Quality Monitoring Programme (at Pandora Bridge),

§ the Estuarine Water Quality Monitoring programme to support policy development (at six locations between Watchman Rd and Pandora Bridge) (waters),

§ the Estuarine Ecological Monitoring Programme (sediments collected at multiple locations across the estuary).

The waters of the upper estuary appear to be fairly eutrophic, consistent with the findings of previous reports. However by approximately the middle of the estuary, chlorophyll a levels have dropped below trigger levels, indicating that dilution and flushing from marine waters is moderating nutrient concentrations and algal growth (Figure 3-5).

Figure 3-5: Chlorophyll a levels of water samples taken within the Ahuriri Estuary between March and April 2013 (Ahuriri 1-6), and 2006-2013 (Ahuriri at Pandora). Redline = ANZECC trigger value for south-east Australian estuaries.

From a contact recreation perspective, waters of the Ahuriri Estuary are unlikely to support algal growth to an extent that would impair contact recreation. This assessment excludes the periodic and transient blooms which can significantly increases chlorophyll a concentrations and reduce visual clarity. Such events are infrequently reported for the Ahuriri Estuary.

Harmful algal blooms (HABs)

Harmful algae blooms (and associated marine biotoxins) occur infrequently in Hawke Bay and estuarine areas. These are defined as species that may release toxins (e.g. Gymnodinium catenatum, Pseudonitzchia, Karenia, Dinophysis) which can be harmful if ingested via water or contaminated shellfish, resulting in serious illness. Additionally, species may be present in bloom numbers that do not produce toxins, but cause irritation to the eyes or skin. These blooms may also have environmental impacts, such as depletion of dissolved oxygen concentrations in the water column.

Marine biotoxins were routinely monitored by the Public Health Unit on behalf of the Food Safety Authority until recently, when this function was transferred to the Ministry of Primary Industry (MPI). During autumn 2005 and 2006, significant parts of the Hawke’s Bay coastline were closed due to the presence of marine biotoxins. In August 2012, a large and persistent bloom of Akashiwo sanguine (red tide) was observed along most of the east coast of the North Island, and in the following month a bloom of Pseudo-nitzschia spp. (produces the neurotoxin domoic acid) was observed off Napier; this bloom also included the red tide, Mesodinium rubrum. During these times, contact recreation would have been discouraged along coastal beaches or estuaries affected by these organisms.

3.4 State of the Ahuriri Estuary for contact recreation

Based on information derived from various monitoring programmes operated by Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, the Ahuriri Estuary may be considered as “fair” for contact recreational purposes (see appendix one). This grading indicates that:

§ Ahuriri Estuary waters are generally suitable for swimming.

§ Elevated bacteria concentrations can occur at times.

§ Caution is required during periods of heavy rain or when the water appears discoloured.

Faecal contamination of the estuary is associated with stormwater inflows, runoff from rural land uses and direct deposition of faeces by the high numbers of birds for which the estuary is valued. Throughout the summer period when water quality monitoring indicates an elevated risk of illness due to high numbers of faecal bacteria, the Regional Council work in collaboration with the Public Health Unit of the Hawke’s Bay District Health Board to inform the public of the risk through signage and media releases.

Sewage discharges may cause infrequent problems; these are not considered to be a persistent problem.

Should the community express a desire for improved water quality, application of techniques such as faecal source tracking would be useful in identifying the sources of faecal indicator organisms, which in turn would allow management strategies to be targeted on these sources.

Other water quality metrics, such as visual clarity and algal growth do not generally impair recreational values.

Ahuriri Estuary: Contact Recreation and Food Gathering Review

Attachment 2

8 References

ANZECC (2000) Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality 2000. ANZECC and ARMCANZ (eds), Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council, Australia.

Ataria, J., Tremblay, C., Tremblay, L., Black, M., Kaukau, M., Kemp, R. and Mauger, J. (2008) He Moemoea mo Te Whangaui-a-Orotu: A vision plan.

Black, M. and Ataria, J. (2008) Napier Estuary Literature Review, p. 31, Landcare Research, Lincoln, New Zealand.

Bolton-Ritchie, L., Greenfield, S., Madarasz-Smith, A., Milne, J., Stevenson, M. and Walker, J. (2013) Recreational Water Quality: A practitioner's discussion on the limitations of the 2003 national guidelines.

Chague-Goff, C., Nichol, S.L., Jenkinson, A.V. and Heijnis, H. (2000) Signatures of natural catastrophic events and anthropogenic impact in an estuarine environment, New Zealand. Marine Geology 167, 285-301.

Comerty, P.S., D.A. (1996) A directory of wetlands., p. 395, Department of Conservation, Wellington.

ESR (2004) Ahuriri cockle results, p. 1, ESR, ESR.

Eyre, T.M. (2009) The Sediment Dynamics of Ahuriri Estuary, Napier, New Zealand, University of Waikato & Universitat Bremen, Hamilton, New Zeland.

Fenton, J.A. (1997) Ahuriri Estuary Water Quality: Review of water quality in the estuary and catchment area, p. 69, Blue Tear Environmental, Napier, New Zealabnd.

HBRC (2012) Hawke's Bay Regional Coastal Environment Plan, HBRC.

Henriques, P.R., Binmore, H., Grant, N.E., Anderson, S.H., Duffy, C.A.J. (1990) Coastal Resource Inventory First Order Survey: Hawke's Bay Conservancy, p. 78 + Department of Conservation, Wellington.

Hooper, G. (1989) Ahuriri Estuary Water Quality Study, p. 37 +, Hawke's Bay Regional Council.

Kilner, A.R. and Akroyd, J.M. (1978) Fish and Invertebrate Macrofauna of the Ahuriri Estuary, Napier, p. 79, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Wellington, New Zealand.

Knox, G.A. (1979) Ahuriri Estuary: An Environmental Study, p. 84, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, Canterbury.

Lee, J.W. (1977) Hawke's Bay Harbour Board's Proposal to Dredge Humber Street Pond. Board, H.s.B.C. (ed), p. 9, Wellington, New Zealand.

MfE (1994) Water Quality Guidelines No. 2. Environment, M.f.t. (ed), Ministry for the Environment, Wellington, New Zealand.

MfE and MoH (2003) Microbiological Water Quality Guidelines for Marine and Freshwater Recreational Areas, Ministry for the Environment, Wellington.

NZFSA (1995) Microbiological Limits for Food. Authority, F.S. (ed).

Rycroft, C. (2000) Napier Inner Harbour & Lower Ahuriri Estuary Point Source Discharges, p. 17, Hawke's Bay Regional Council, Napier, New Zealand.

Smith, S. (2010) Monitoring of benthic effects of stormwater discharges at sites in the Ahuriri Estuary: 2010 Survey, p. 52.

Smith, S. (2011) Fate, transport and extent of sediment associated trace metal contaminants in Napier urban waterways: Purimu Stream and County Drain, p. 39.

Strong, J. (2005) Antifoulant and trace metal contamination of the sediments from the Napier Inner Harbour., p. 30, EAM Ltd, Napier.

Appendix A Assessing microbiological water quality for contact recreation

The “Microbiological water quality guidelines for marine and freshwater areas” (MfE and MoH, 2003) were developed to improve the communication of risk to recreational water users. In a departure from earlier assessments of recreational water quality, the 2003 guidelines required two related activities to be undertaken in order to assess suitability for recreational use:

§ risk grading, allowing a Sanitary Inspection Category to be assigned to the water body and associated catchment, and

§ allocation of a Microbiological Assessment Category, using routine monitoring data.

Combining these indices allows an overall Suitability for Recreation Grade to be assigned, which is the basis for informing the public regarding health risks associated with recreation at a particular location.

Significant monitoring is required to classify recreational water. A minimum of 20 data should be acquired over the recreation season. Ideally the classification should be based on data collected over a five year period. The classification makes use of 95th percentile concentration values.

Weekly Monitoring

The MfE and MoH (2003) guidelines also identify two tiers of surveillance activity. These actions are based on maintaining the risks of infection below identified thresholds. A “traffic light” coding system is used:

§ in surveillance mode (green), where concentrations of indicator organisms in individual samples remain below specific thresholds, routine monitoring continues.

§ where the surveillance concentration threshold is exceeded by a single sample result:

− alert (amber) or

− action (red) monitoring modes commence.

§ sampling frequency increases (to daily), the source of pollution is investigated and warning signs may be erected.

The monitoring thresholds for fresh and saline waters associated with these “traffic light” are detailed in Table A-1.

Table A‑1: Status levels and management actions associated with measured faecal indicators and illness risk. Source MfE&MoH, 2003

Colour code	Status	Marine waters (enterococci /100 mL)	Freshwaters *(E. coli* /100 mL)**	Action
Green	Surveillance	All results <140	All results <260	Continue routine weekly monitoring
Amber	Alert	Single sample result >140	Single sample result >260	Increase to daily sampling, identify source of contamination
Red	Action	2 consecutive sample results >280	Single sample results >550	Increase to daily sampling, identify source of contamination, erect signs, inform public

Suitability for Recreation Grade (SFRG)

In order to grade a recreational water body, two activities must occur:

§ the Microbiological Assessment Category (MAC) must be established from existing or collected microbiological data; definitions for the different categories are given in Table 4-3

§ the Sanitary Inspection Category (SIC) must be established (classifications are Very High, High, Moderate, Low or Very Low; these refer to risk of contamination and are determined for a specific water body by using the SIC flow chart provided in the guidelines (MfE and MoH, 2003).

The Suitability for Recreation Grade (SFRG) provides five grades (very poor to very good) that summarise the potential health risk associated with primary recreation (such as swimming or surfing) at a site. The process for generating a SFRG is summarised schematically in Figure A-1.

Figure A‑1: Suitability for recreation grade schematic.

The grades can then be used to communicate typical risk of contact recreation in a specific water body to water uses as described in Table A-2.

Table A‑2: Explanation of suitability for recreation grades.

SFRG	Description*
Very Good	The site has generally excellent microbial water quality and very few potential sources of faecal pollution. Water is considered suitable for swimming for almost all of the time.
Good	The site is considered suitable for swimming for most of the time. Swimming should be avoided during or following heavy rain.
Fair	The site is generally suitable for swimming, but because of the presence of significant sources of faecal contamination, extra care should be taken to avoid swimming during or following rainfall or if there are signs of pollution such as discoloured water, odour, or debris in the water.
Poor	The site is susceptible to faecal pollution and microbial water quality is not always suitable for swimming. During dry weather conditions, ensure that the swimming location is free of signs of pollution, such as discoloured water, odour or debris in the water, and avoid swimming at all times during and for up to three days following rainfall.
Very Poor	The site is very susceptible to faecal pollution and microbial water quality may often be unsuitable for swimming. It is generally recommended to avoid swimming at these sites.

* from http://www.mfe.govt.nz/environmental-reporting/fresh-water/suitability-for-swimming-indicator/suitability-swimming-indicator.html).

[1] The person making the complaint must be able to demonstrate that the privet affects their health. For example that they live close by, or visit the area on a regular basis during flowering.

Occupier		Owner
First Name:		First Name:
Surname:		Surname:
Property Address:		Property Address:


Postal Address:		Postal Address:


Phone Number:		Phone Number:
Mobile Phone:		Mobile Phone:
j Key Decision Maker		j Key Decision Maker
Signature:
	(Occupier)		(Owner)

	(Date)		(Date)

(Hawkes Bay Regional Council)			(Date)

Plant pest	Limited distribution	Difficult to control	Non-economic benefits
Apple of Sodom	√
Australian sedge	√
Chilean needle grass		√
Cotton thistle	√
Japanese honeysuckle		√
Old man’s beard		√
Pinus contorta		√
Privet			√
Saffron thistle	√
Woolly nightshade	√		√

cfu	Coliform Forming Units
*E. coli*	Esherichia coli
HAB	Harmful Algal Bloom
HBRC	Hawke’s Bay Regional Council
MfE	Ministry for the Environment
MoH	Ministry of Health
MPI	Ministry of Primary Industries
MPN	Most Probably Number
NTU	Nephelometric Turbidity Units
SFRG	Suitability for Recreation Grade

Received	TLA	Map Ref	Activity	Applicant/ Agency	Status	Current Situation
5 December 2013	NCC	1	Plan Change 10 to the Operative City of Napier District Plan. A community driven Plan Change to harmonise district wide provisions between the Napier District Plan with the Hastings District Plan, incorporate the Ahuriri Subdistrict Plan and update provisions as a result of recent Napier City Council policy changes and decisions into the Napier District Plan.	NCC	Notified	31 May 2014 · Further submissions closed Friday 9 May 2014. HBRC staff did not consider that a Further Submission was required as none of the Submissions received by NCC contradicted HBRC’s original Submission or raised issues of concern to this Council. · In total NCC received 28 Submissions. It is anticipated that NCC will begin hearings within the next few months. · Original submission period closed on Friday 14 February 2014. The HBRC submission can be found at HBRC Submissions · Previously informal comments were made by staff on draft content relating to HPUDS and RPS Change 4.
8 November 2013	HDC	2	Proposed Hastings District Plan Review of the Hastings District Plan in its entirety. Includes the harmonisation of district wide provisions between the Napier District Plan with the Hastings District Plan where relevant..	HDC	Notified	31 May 2014 · Further submissions closed Friday 9 May 2014. HBRC lodged a Further Submission on a number of Submissions including on those requesting development in areas outside of the settlement pattern adopted in HPUDS. · In total HDC received 198 Submissions on their Proposed District Plan. It is anticipated that HDC will begin hearings within the next few months. · The HBRC Submission and Further Submission on the HDC Plan Review can be found here HBRC Submissions http://www.hbrc.govt.nz/HBRC-Documents/HBRC Document Library/20140214 Submission HDC District Plan.pdf · Prior to the notification of the Proposed District Plan, HDC released a Draft District Plan Review on which the Regional Council provided comments. Various informal comments were made by staff on draft content, particularly relating to natural hazards, HPUDS and RPS Change4, riparian management.
1 August 2013	NA	3	Application under Coastal and Marine (Takutai Moana) Act 2011 Rongomaiwahine has made an application for a Protected Customary Rights Order and a Customary Marine Title Order in the general Mahia Peninsular area under section 100 of the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act 2011.	Rongomaiwahine (Pauline Tangiora)	Notified	8 November 2013. · Council has opposed the grant of the orders unless the nature and geographical extent of the orders is specified with sufficient detail to enable the Council to appropriately understand the effect of the orders sought. · High Court has been assessing validity of other parties joining these proceedings. No additional actions or responses have been required from HBRC since joining proceedings in late 2013.

1	Animal Pest Operational Plan 2014 - 15
2	Plant Pest Operational Plan 2014 - 15
3	Phytosanitary Operational Plan 2014 - 15

1-5% of budget	5-10% of budget	>10% of budget
Privet	Australian sedge	Old man’s beard
Cotton thistle		Pinus contorta
Japanese honeysuckle		Saffron thistle
Apple of Sodom		Chilean needle grass

1	The Tukituki, Waitangi and Ahuriri: Assessment of the Extent of Saltwater Influence in Hawke's Bay Estuaries
2	Ahuriri Estuary: Contact Recreation and Food Gathering Review

Year	Median concentration (MPN /100mL)	Proportion of samples >43 MPN/100 mL (%)	Compliant with guideline values?
2006/07	9	20	No
2007/08	14	10	Yes
2008/09	10	5	Yes
2009/10	14	20	No
2010/11	39	40	No
2011/12	5	20	No
2012/13	3	0	Yes