MINUTES OF THE PUHOI FORUM COMMUNITY MEETING

HELD AT PUHOI SPORTS CLUB ON 30 MAY 2017 commencing at 7.30pm

PRESENT: Dustyn O’Leary (Chair), Paul Manton (Co-Chair), Jenny Schollum (Treasurer), Judith Williams, Sheryll Titford, Sorrel O’Leary, Gillian Seymour, Terri Ryder, Johan Rijnbende, Sandra Beagley, Wendy Hayton (Secretary, Minutes) Sandra

APOLOGIES: Russell Green, Heston Prosper-Smith, Mike Swain, Jenny Neel, Val Smith, Marg Nelson, Pat and Graham Backley, Brian Titford, Beth Houlbrooke (Rodney Local Board), Tessa Berger (Rodney Local Board), Christine Mundell,. Kristin Gillies

1. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 18 APRIL 2017

The minutes of the meeting held on 18 April 2017 had been previously circulated. The minutes were accepted as being a true and accurate record.

Motion 1

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 18 April 2017 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

Moved: Dustyn O’Leary

Seconded: Paul Manton

Carried

2. TREASURER’S REPORT for APRIL/MAY 2017– previously circulated

Subscriptions will be due prior to the AGM in June.

Motion 2

THAT the secretarial payment for $30 be approved, and THAT the Treasurer’s report for April 2017 was accepted.

Moved: Jenny Schollum

Seconded: Dustyn O’Leary

Carried

2. SCHOOL BUS

Terri Ryder reported that the School Bus has been granted an extension through the Ministry. It has been confirmed that when the Orewa bus comes into Puhoi in the morning it will wait for children coming off the Warkworth bus. In the afternoon the bus is taking children further on into the area, past the centre of Puhoi. Many thanks to Terri Ryder her for her hard work.

2. PIONIEER RIVER PARK UPDATE

Paul updated the meeting. The posts had not yet been put in for the fencing as no post rammer machine has been available to put them in. Once the machine comes available, there are plenty of materials available to complete the work. At present there is no date for its availability.

Planting. Sorrel reported that planting can’t begin until the fencing is complete. Plants are being held for this purpose. Sorrel is to liaise with Paul to ascertain when the fence is complete.

Community Planting Day. The end of July is a likely time for the Community Planting Day. A trailer load of plants will be donated by the Wenderholm Nursery. This donation could mean that there is money in the budget for a few additional specimen trees. Many thanks to Gavin Donaldson for his contribution to the work with the trees.

2. GENERAL BUSINESS

1. Motorway Liaison Consortium Group NX2

An invitation only meeting was held last week by NX2 with representatives from the Puhoi local area, to discuss matters that affect this area. Paul and Dustyn were invited, Judith was also there.

Summary. Dustyn reported a very positive meeting. NX2 were completely open and honest regarding what they could do for the community, what the plans and timing are and what the community can do for them. The overpass height was mentioned – 10 metres above the existing road level. There is no opportunity for input regarding the design of overpass, but there could be a 50 car carpark under it which could be used as a Park and Ride for Puhoi village.

Current timing. Access ramps will go in this summer. There will be minimal trucks around Puhoi as they are starting at the other end. Work is starting on the overpass in March 2018, but it will be ground up work, so there won’t be much to see.

Traffic Plan/Speed Limit. NX2 is keen to get the speed limit dropped to 80kmph. Once they have a plan they will come back to us. They haven’t got their final traffic plan worked through as yet. The main site office will be at the northern end of the new motorway, with a small office at the Puhoi end.

Benefits for the community. NX2 can’t give any money or land. There are a couple of opportunities – mitigation planting (off the actual site) – the village might get riparian planting done. Also pest management could possibly be extended to Puhoi. They are also interested in sponsoring local events such as football games.

3 Monthly meetings. These meetings will be held every 3 months, unless other things come up. They want information disseminated as widely as possible (Judith, Mike, Dustyn etc). Dustyn will send out her notes and NX2 will also be sending out notes. Dustyn will be the Forum’s contact/liaison person.

2. Working Groups

• Traffic Safety/Walkways

Dustyn reported that a meeting of interested parties is planned to discuss the possibility of using the rotunda area as a bus turnaround. However, it is important that AT attend, which, at present, appears unlikely.

• Neighbourhood Support and Civil Defence

Nothing to report at present. Heston is currently unwell. The Community Hall has been confirmed as an official gathering area in case of emergency.

3. Village Market

Positive feedback was received from those stall holders who used the upstairs in the Sports Hall for the first time.

4. Tree removal and reserve concern

Judith reported the removal of the tree from the Puhoi River has been successful.

Judith voiced her concern about a neighbor who said they would be looking to buy the reserve between their property and hers. Judith has written to Beth and Tessa who have responded and will look into the legality of any such claims. There are plenty of regulations to prevent this. The Forum are the landlords of the park.

5. Puhoi Historical Society – Community Dance on 24 June and get together on 25 June – 154^th Anniversary (soup, bring a plate in the Community Hall)

Jenny presented a brief report on the PHS. The Society’s AGM is on 7^th June at 7pm. There will be supper afterwards and all are welcome.

Jenny reported that the Museum would like to get a collection of ANZAC stories from anyone who is living in the area – not necessarily those who have a link to Bohemian descendants.

The meeting closed at 8.35pm.

NEXT MEETING and AGM

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 27 June at 7.30pm. This will be the AGM. Membership is open to all with subscriptions needing to be paid prior to the AGM (or at the door, prior to the meeting).

PUHOI COMMUNITY FORUM

MEETING TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY 30 MAY 2017 at 7.30pm at

THE PUHOI SPORTS CLUB – CHAIRPERSON – DUSTYN O’LEARY

AGENDA

1. Confirmation of the Minutes of previous Meeting held on 18 April 2017

2. Matters Arising from those Minutes (not appearing on this Agenda)

3. Treasurer’s Report for April 2017 – Jenny Schollum

4. Puhoi Pioneer Memorial Park

• Update – Paul Manton

5. General Business

1. A motorway consortium liaion representative from the Forum/Puhoi is sought (see attachment)

2. Working Groups – updates

• Road Safety Group – update on the school bus extension to

Remiger Road, on behalf of the Road Safety Group – Terri Ryder

• Civil Defence

• Neighbourhood Support

• Others

3. Judith Williams – removal of Puhoi river tree

4. Village market update

5. Further item (Judith Williams)

NEXT MEETING The next meeting will be held on Tuesday June 27^th 2017 at 7.30pm.

MINUTES OF THE PUHOI FORUM COMMUNITY MEETING

HELD AT PUHOI SPORTS CLUB ON 18 APRIL 2017 commencing at 7.30pm

PRESENT: Paul Manton (Chair), Dustyn O’Leary (Co-Chair), Jenny Schollum (Treasurer), Judith Williams, Sheryll Titford, Brian Titford, Sorrel O’Leary, Kristin Gillies, Gary Wenzlick, Johan Rijnbende, Beth Houlbrooke (Rodney Local Board), Tessa Berger (Rodney Local Board),, Christine Mundell, Terri Ryder, Sarah Churchouse, Martyn smith Wendy Hayton (Secretary, Minutes)

APOLOGIES: Russell Green, Heston Prosper-Smith, Mike Swain, Jenny Neel, Val Smith, Marg Nelson, Pat and Grahamde3 Backley

1. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 28 MARCH 2017

The minutes of the meeting held on 28 March 2017 had been previously circulated. The minutes were accepted as being a true and accurate record.

Motion 1

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 28 March 2017 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

Moved: Paul Manton

Seconded: Terri Ryder

Carried

Matters Arising

Chris Mundell referred to the reference in the minutes to the paddock with hay that was going to be planted out as wetland and reference to a discussion at a previous meeting. Chris had checked and reported that it was said that the issue of wetland or not would be put before the two farmers involved. Minutes of previous years’ meetings had said that if that land were put into wetland, it could never be put back to a hay paddock. However, there appears to have been no motion made regarding any decision. Dustyn said the issue had been discussed with Kevin and representative Forum members, and agreed that he would not cut it and in future when planting the walkway this area would be left as wetland. Dustyn will circulate minutes where this is covered in order to clarify.

Action: Dustyn

2. TREASURER’S REPORT for MARCH 2017/ End Financial Year – previously circulated

Payments for the month were for the Sports Club meeting venue and a new member subscription. THAT the secretarial payment for $30 was approved. It was noted that the Sport’s Club rental fee has increased as from 1 April 2017. It was agreed that Jenny would send the accounts through to Larry Mitchell to get audited. Subscriptions will be due prior to the AGM in June.

Motion 2

THAT the secretarial payment for $30 was approved, and THAT the Treasurer’s report for March 2017 and the end of the 2106/2017 Financial year was accepted.

Moved: Judith

Seconded: Paul

Carried

2. PIONIEER RIVER PARK

Paul Manton gave an update on the river walkway. There has been little progress on the fencing because of wet weather. The Council arborists have not yet got involved, although they have visited the site.

The Forum leases from the Council all the land in the River Park (land to the left hand side of the bridge, through the metal gate), including walkways and planting, and sublets a substantial amount of this land to Kevin Jones (farmer) on a 5 year sublease, This lease has currently another 2 years or so to run (half way through). Kevin has indicated a desire to continue leasing the land once the lease comes up for renewal.

Paul Manton reported that the Council have sent documentation for renewal of the River Park land lease by the Forum. He requested approval to send these forms in to the Council. The lease is 10 x 10 years. This lease reflects the changeover from the Rodney Council to the Auckland Council. There is no change otherwise. Discussion took place. There is an income stream to the Forum at the moment from Kevin Jones, lessee of the farmland.

The whole Park is under the Council lease. The building of the Sports Club and surrounding land to the right hand side of the bridge is not included in the Forum’s lease. This is leased to the Sports Club by the Council.

It was agreed that Paul should send in the documents for lease renewal to the Council by a show of hands.

Judith Williams reported that a tree had fallen into the river in the storms. This is on public land. It appeared as if it might dam the river. Judith rang the Council storm water help line and lodged a request for assistance. It was suggested that a contractor be brought in to do the work, in order to avoid delays. To date, nothing has happened. It was agreed that Judith should log the call and get a reference number and email the Council (Tessa Berger).by email with the details.

2. FUTURE PROJECTS/ACTIVITIES FOR THE MEMORIAL PARK

This is ongoing. Some really good ideas have been received. More time and ideas are needed. Sarah Churchouse carried out a survey of Puhoi residents on her own account. She reported that the overwhelming response was as follows:

• The driving force of the survey started with the Little Village information day. 

• The survey showed strong opposition to the Puhoi little village project on Public Land (Puhoi Pioneers Memorial Park).

• The survey was a 6 week project, widely distributed, with 126 people taking part

• Base Statistics showed that of the 126 returned surveys, 12 people are in favour of building and a tourist venture in the Park and 114 prefer to leave it as it is or

to continue with planting. 19 people who filled in the survey were not aware of the Little Village project.

• The park is well used by locals for a variety of recreational activities.

Paul thanked Sarah and Gary Wenzlick for this information and welcomed the feedback.

Judith asked to table information about her views buildings in the Puhoi Memorial Park. This information accompanies the minutes.

2. GENERAL BUSINESS

1. Working Groups

Traffic Safety/Walkways

Dustyn reported that Greenways have approached the Forum for a letter of support for their grant to develop a number of pathways. Duistyn proposed giving this support, conditional on Greenways further consultation with the Forum on a number of issues (e.g. planning for parking etc). This is a long term project. It was agreed in principle by a show of hands, so long as these are multi use pathways

Neighbourhood Support and Civil Defence

Judith reported 21 streets need coordinators. She has about 12.

2. Village Market

Celebrating ethnicities on 30^th April. The pub has ATM facilities for this (not the shop).

3. ANZAC Day – being organized by the PHS.

4. Council 3 Year Strategic Plan Consultation.

Beth Houlbrooke reported that the Council is about to do more consultation on the 3 year strategic plan for the Rodney Local Board area – budget allocations are based on community feedback for projects over the next 3 years.

The meeting closed at 8.35pm.

NEXT MEETING

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 30^th May at 7.30pm.

MINUTES OF THE PUHOI FORUM COMMUNITY MEETING

HELD AT PUHOI SPORTS CLUB ON 18 APRIL 2017 commencing at 7.30pm

PRESENT: Paul Manton (Chair), Dustyn O’Leary (Co-Chair), Jenny Schollum (Treasurer), Judith Williams, Sheryll Titford, Brian Titford, Sorrel O’Leary, Kristin Gillies, Gary Wenzlick, Johan Rijnbende, Beth Houlbrooke (Rodney Local Board), Tessa Berger (Rodney Local Board),, Christine Mundell, Terri Ryder, Sarah Churchouse, Martyn smith Wendy Hayton (Secretary, Minutes)

APOLOGIES: Russell Green, Heston Prosper-Smith, Mike Swain, Jenny Neel, Val Smith, Marg Nelson, Pat and Grahamde3 Backley

1. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 28 MARCH 2017

The minutes of the meeting held on 28 March 2017 had been previously circulated. The minutes were accepted as being a true and accurate record.

Motion 1

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 28 March 2017 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

Moved: Paul Manton

Seconded: Terri Ryder

Carried

Matters Arising

Chris Mundell referred to the reference in the minutes to the paddock with hay that was going to be planted out as wetland and reference to a discussion at a previous meeting. Chris had checked and reported that it was said that the issue of wetland or not would be put before the two farmers involved. Minutes of previous years’ meetings had said that if that land were put into wetland, it could never be put back to a hay paddock. However, there appears to have been no motion made regarding any decision. Dustyn said the issue had been discussed with Kevin and representative Forum members, and agreed that he would not cut it and in future when planting the walkway this area would be left as wetland. Dustyn will circulate minutes where this is covered in order to clarify.

Action: Dustyn

2. TREASURER’S REPORT for MARCH 2017/ End Financial Year – previously circulated

Payments for the month were for the Sports Club meeting venue and a new member subscription. THAT the secretarial payment for $30 was approved. It was noted that the Sport’s Club rental fee has increased as from 1 April 2017. It was agreed that Jenny would send the accounts through to Larry Mitchell to get audited. Subscriptions will be due prior to the AGM in June.

Motion 2

THAT the secretarial payment for $30 was approved, and THAT the Treasurer’s report for March 2017 and the end of the 2106/2017 Financial year was accepted.

Moved: Judith

Seconded: Paul

Carried

2. PIONIEER RIVER PARK

Paul Manton gave an update on the river walkway. There has been little progress on the fencing because of wet weather. The Council arborists have not yet got involved, although they have visited the site.

The Forum leases from the Council all the land in the River Park (land to the left hand side of the bridge, through the metal gate), including walkways and planting, and sublets a substantial amount of this land to Kevin Jones (farmer) on a 5 year sublease, This lease has currently another 2 years or so to run (half way through). Kevin has indicated a desire to continue leasing the land once the lease comes up for renewal.

Paul Manton reported that the Council have sent documentation for renewal of the River Park land lease by the Forum. He requested approval to send these forms in to the Council. The lease is 10 x 10 years. This lease reflects the changeover from the Rodney Council to the Auckland Council. There is no change otherwise. Discussion took place. There is an income stream to the Forum at the moment from Kevin Jones, lessee of the farmland.

The whole Park is under the Council lease. The building of the Sports Club and surrounding land to the right hand side of the bridge is not included in the Forum’s lease. This is leased to the Sports Club by the Council.

It was agreed that Paul should send in the documents for lease renewal to the Council by a show of hands.

Judith Williams reported that a tree had fallen into the river in the storms. This is on public land. It appeared as if it might dam the river. Judith rang the Council storm water help line and lodged a request for assistance. It was suggested that a contractor be brought in to do the work, in order to avoid delays. To date, nothing has happened. It was agreed that Judith should log the call and get a reference number and email the Council (Tessa Berger).by email with the details.

2. FUTURE PROJECTS/ACTIVITIES FOR THE MEMORIAL PARK

This is ongoing. Some really good ideas have been received. More time and ideas are needed. Sarah Churchouse carried out a brief survey of Puhoi residents on her own account. She reported that the overwhelming response was that little should be changed. There was very little support for more building or tourist development. Park use included cycling, dog walking and leisure walks. Paul thanked Sarah for this information and welcomed her feedback and contribution.

Judith asked to table information about her views buildings in the Puhoi Memorial Park. This information accompanies the minutes.

2. GENERAL BUSINESS

1. Working Groups

Traffic Safety/Walkways

Dustyn reported that Greenways have approached the Forum for a letter of support for their grant to develop a number of pathways. Duistyn proposed giving this support, conditional on Greenways further consultation with the Forum on a number of issues (e.g. planning for parking

etc). This is a long term project. It was agreed in principle by a show of hands, so long as these are multi use pathways

Neighbourhood Support and Civil Defence

Judith reported 21 streets need coordinators. She has about 12.

2. Village Market

Celebrating ethnicities on 30^th April. The pub has ATM facilities for this (not the shop).

3. ANZAC Day – being organized by the PHS.

4. Council 3 Year Strategic Plan Consultation.

Beth Houlbrooke reported that the Council is about to do more consultation on the 3 year strategic plan for the Rodney Local Board area – budget allocations are based on community feedback for projects over the next 3 years.

The meeting closed at 8.35pm.

NEXT MEETING

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 30^th May at 7.30pm.

MINUTES OF THE PUHOI FORUM COMMUNITY MEETING

HELD AT PUHOI SPORTS CLUB ON 28 MARCH 2017 commencing at 7.30pm

PRESENT: Dustyn O’Leary (Chair), Paul Manton (Co-Chair), (Treasurer), Judith Williams, S Peter Straka, Sandra Beagley, Sorrel O’Leary, Larry Mitchell, Pat Backley, Gavin Donaldson, Guinny Sorenson, Torbin Sorensen, Peter Kamphuis, Debbie Kamphuis, Christine Mundell, Mike Swain, Jenny Neel, Val Smith, Terri Ryder, Marg Nelson, Kristin Gillies, Heston Prospere-Smith, Jenny Schollum (Treasurer), Wendy Hayton (Secretary, Minutes)

APOLOGIES: Beth Houlbrooke (Rodney Local Board), Tessa Berger (Rodney Local Board), Sheryll Titford, Brian Titford

1. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 28 FEBRUARY 2017

The minutes of the meeting held on 28 February 2017 had been previously circulated. Mike Swain requested that more detail about the Saleyards Rd rezoning case be included. It was agreed that this information is included at the end of these minutes. With this comment, the minutes were accepted as being a true and accurate record.

Motion 1

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 28 February 2017 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

Moved: Marg Nelson

Seconded: Gavin Donaldson

Carried

2. TREASURER’S REPORT for FEBRUARY 2017– previously circulated

Motion 2

THAT the secretarial payment for $30 was approved. It was noted that the Sport’s Club rental fee has increased as from 1 April 2017. The Treasurer’s report for February 2017 was accepted.

Moved: Dustyn O’Leary

Seconded: Judith Williams

Carried

2. PIONIEER RIVER PARK

River Walkway

Paul Manton gave an update on the walkway. The culverts have now been cleared. With the assistance of Kevin Jones (leaseholder) machinery the entrance way to Stage 1 of the walkway will be clear so that the walkway can be used, and the Council will be able to mow the grass there.

Paul and a number of others will be starting the fencing shortly and are currently gathering the appropriate materials. Paul asked that once they had the right materials the Form would grant them to go ahead and use the funds scheduled for this purpose.

Motion 3

That the Forum authorises the funds required for the fencing previously agreed for the River Park walkway and entranceway to be released to Paul Manton, once he and his team have purchased the appropriate materials. The approximate figure is likely to be between $2000-3000.

Moved: Paul Manton

Seconded: Dustyn O’Leary

Carried

Action: Paul Manton

The Arborist from the Council should also be coming to take care of the macrocarpa trees on this site around the end of March, beginning of April.

2. Little Village Information Day – Update

The Information Day had taken place on 12 March. Marg Nelson reported approximately 60 people attending. She gave a summary of the key points that arose from the day.

It was noted that a survey by Sarah Churchouse was being circulated around the village regarding the Park and its uses. This is not a Forum survey or backed by the Forum.

Paul Manton clarified the point that it is the Forum’s role to air community views, but not to be involved in or form an opinion on local projects. It is possible that once the Council formally requests submissions on the Little Village as part of the consent process, the Forum might submit a majority view if appropriate. Paul stated that the 2008 Park Management Plan is still in place for the area at this stage.

Judith Williams reported that Gillian Seymour had temporarily offered a small section of her land (part of ‘The Oaks’) by Puhoi River Motors to Larry Mitchell and his team for his blacksmith’s shop. This shop is on skids and can easily be removed. This location is at the start of the public walkway and close to public parking. This would facilitate the goal of having the Blacksmith’s shop open for the 29 June Puhoi settlement commemorations.

Larry acknowledged that there was a great deal of process to go through prior to any possibility of the Little Village being granted any place for development. Gillian’s offer could be very helpful at this time. Even with this offer, there will be Council stipulations to meet. Larry is to bring an update on this to the next meeting.

Action: Larry Mitchell

Clarification was made that the Puhoi Historical Society supports the concept of the Little Village, it is not involved in any way with the project team management.

2. SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE PROJECTS FOR USE OF THE PUHOI MEMORIAL PARK

Paul Manton asked for ideas for future projects which might be appropriate to put forward in the review of the River Park management plan which will be occurring in the next few months, in conjunction with the Council.

1. Scouts/Playgroup building. Judith Williams suggested there will be a need in the not too distant future for buildings to house the growing community, in particular the Scouts and the playgroup (which might free up more space for the PHS museum in its current location). She suggested the shed in the Park which used to house the A&P equipment might be extended and a track established. Dustyn asked Judith to email her with more information around this idea for further discussion.

2. More walking tracks – Greenways is planning some linking with Warkworth and other places. It is anticipated that the River Park track go right up to meet the current track at the top of the ridge and form a true loop.

3. Wetland – Gavin Donaldson reminded that Forum that it had been agreed that Kevin (leaseholder) would fence off, not mow and ultimately plant out the wetland area on the Park land. No progress has so far been made. He proposed fencing off this area as a start.

4. Puhoi Little Village – Larry Mitchell asked that the list include the Puhoi Little Village development on part of the Park land.

5. Horses/Riding – more jumps (as at present) and a further area for riding se drained with sand and flattened off. Such an area could possibly also be used as a sports area.

6. Music in the Park area.

7. Mountain bike/informal BMX tracks area to help get the kids of the roads.

8. Community gardens/orchard.

Online Survey

It was agreed that Mike Swain would put up a survey on the Puhoi website on behalf of the Forum about possible future projects. Dustyn and Mike to liaise on this.

Action: Dustyn O’Leary

Mike Swain

Paul Manton cautioned that those projects which did not require too much Council input are likely to be the most successful.

2. GENERAL BUSINESS

1. Community Response Group (CRG) (was Civil Defence)

Heston Prosper Smith reported that he had had a meeting with the Auckland Council which had clarified most of the issues concerning the change from community Civil Defence to Community Response Groups. The Council might be able to fund a small amount of training but there is a need for more funds for leaflets, changes to the manual and other equipment. Grants can only be obtained from organisations which are Incorporated Societies with charity status. It was agreed that the CRG should come under the umbrella of the Puhoi Community Forum, which has this status and that the Council should be informed of this. Heston is to draft a letter to the Council for the Forum Chairs to sign on behalf of the Forum.

Action: Heston Prosper Smith

Motion 4

That the Puhoi Community Forum, as an Incorporated Society with charity status, officially become the umbrella organisation under which the CRG to can operate.

Moved: Peter Straka

Seconded: Judith Williams

Carried

2. Neighbourhood Support Group

Judith Williams provided a report to be circulated in the Minutes, as follows.

Judith has continued sending out requests for conveners for Puhoi’s approximately 21 streets and roads, with only a moderate response, but it is clear from some replies that Civil Defence and Neighbourhood Support are becoming confused in some people’s minds.

Three people from the rural and village areas of the Puhoi River catchment have kindly offered their premises as a refuge in time of flood.

Rodney Neighbourhood Support leader Margaret Faed is providing a map of the catchment as those already available on the internet are hard to read and interpret.

The people asked to act as future conveners will look after roughly 10 to 20 households, mainly by collecting the contact details of their residents.

 

3. School Buses

Terri Ryder had pursued this issue and her proposals with the Ministry of Education and AT with little success. It appears re-zoning might be creating difficulties. Puhoi children are now out of zone for Warkworth.

It was suggested that she contact local MP Mark Mitchell on behalf of the Forum.

Dustyn reported that she had been talking to Russell Green (Puhoi River Motors), Gillian Seymour (Puhoi Pub) and Nick (village shop) to try to move forward with developing bus turnaround options. AT has been the sticking point with this also.

4. Village Market Update

The last market experienced poor weather. There has been a suggestion that the present stalls in the Sports Hall which are downstairs move upstairs. There appear to be a number of logistical problems with this.

Judith reminded members that the next market on 30^th April is Ethnic Day (there will be a tug of war between the Danes and the Brits among other events).

5. 84 Krippner Road – potential sale and land use

It appears as though an unconditional offer for the property has been made, and the future owner talked to neighbours about a “noisy factory manufacturing joinery” being sited on the premises. This land is not zoned for this being a Rural and County’ settlement area. Should the new owner wish to pursue the change of land use, the process via Council is prolonged and complex. Discussion took place concerning the impact of noise in the local area. Dustyn reported she has brought the whole issue up with Local Board members Tessa Berger and Beth Houlbrooke and awaits their input.

6. ANZAC Day arrangements

Jenny Schollum reported that the Puhoi Historical Society will be celebrating ANZAC Day as per last year. Volunteer help is needed to help set up the village hall for refreshments afterwards, and with traffic control.

7. Inorganic Rubbish Collection date

This is in August and published on the Puhoi web site.

Saleyards Road Information (an addition to the information in the 28.2.17 minutes). In the name of the Puhoi Community Forum we made an attempt to appeal against the rezoning decision which the Council made on the land between Krippner and  Saleyards Rds. The council made the rules for

being able to make an appeal through the Environment Court very hard to meet – basically we were only allowed to appeal on decisions that the council had made which they themselves deemed ‘out of scope’ (not asked for by anyone). The basis of our appeal was that the Council should have deemed the 97 rezoning ‘Out of Scope’ because the submission by the property developer only asked for a fraction of the rezoned land he was actually given, and other changes allowed him to double the density of housing he was asking to be zoned for. 

Following the interjection of Housing New Zealand (for some odd reason), the Council decided to put our case (and a number of others) through a Jurisdictional Hearing first, to test whether we even had a right to actually appeal. Following submissions by the property developer, Housing New Zealand, ourselves and the Council, the Judge this week decided that we couldn’t appeal, irrespective of whether the council made an error in not deeming the rezoning out of scope. So this was the Environment Court Judge’s decision that the Council was within its own (in our opinion, ridiculous) rules in denying us the opportunity to appeal.

The upshot is that we never even had a chance to put our case, or enter mediation; in which we would have been able to at least mitigate the effect of the decision by reducing the density or zoning level. Our only real recourse now would be to take the case to the High Court but that’s likely to be expensive – unfortunately our opponents have far deeper pockets than us!

If anyone wants a copy of our submissions or the court judgement I can supply them.

NEXT MEETING

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 18 April at 7.30pm. Changed from Tuesday 25 April (ANZAC Day).

MINUTES OF THE PUHOI FORUM COMMUNITY MEETING

HELD AT PUHOI SPORTS CLUB ON 28 FEBRUARY 2017 commencing at 7.30pm

PRESENT: Paul Manton (Chair), Dustyn O’Leary (Co-Chair), Tessa Berger (Rodney Local Board), Jenny Schollum (Treasurer), Judith Williams, Sandra Beagley, Sorrel O’Leary, Paul Fearon, Bitten Fearon, Gavin Donaldson, Christine Mundell, Derek Broadmore, Mike Swain, Jenny Neel, Val Smith, Sheryll Titford, Brian Titford, Terri Ryder, Marg Nelson, Kristin Gillies, Heston Prospere-Smith, Wendy Hayton (Secretary, Minutes)

APOLOGIES: Beth Houlbrooke (Rodney Local Board), Pat and Graham Backley, Gillian Seymour, Peter Cooley, Russell Green.

1. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 31 JANUARY 2017

The minutes of the meeting held on 31 January 2017 had been previously circulated. These were accepted as being a true and accurate record.

Motion 1

THAT the minutes of the meeting held on 31 January 2017 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

Moved: Dustyn O’Leary

Seconded: Chris Mundell

Carried

2. TREASURER’S REPORT for January 2017– previously circulated

Motion 2

That approval be given to pay the Sports Club for venue hire for 8 meetings July 2016 to March 2017, (less December) before the end of March so that it will come into this financial years accounts. $15 per meeting = $120. AND THAT the secretarial payment for $30 was approved. The Treasurer’s report for January 2017 was accepted.

Moved: Paul Manton

Seconded: Jenny Schollum

Carried

2. PIONIEER RIVER PARK

River Walkway

Paul Manton gave an update on the walkway. Kevin Jones will be putting the culverts in in March. The Arborist from Council should also be coming to take care of the macrocarpa trees in the next month. Paul and a number of others will be starting the fencing, hopefully by the end of March.

Gavin Donaldson updated the meeting on the River Park trees. He spoke to the Council arborist before Xmas and showed him the site. He followed this up mid February and the met with the Treescape contractor on site. The works order is now in place. They can’t give a date as yet. However, Gavin needs Kevin’s contact details to let him know when they do commence the work for access purposes.

Action: Paul/Gavin

Planting of River bank

The plants already planted need to be investigated to see how they have survived. Dustyn, Sorrel and others are to have a look and report back. Dustyn is happy to take responsibility for further planting at the appropriate time.

Action: Sorrel O’Leary

2. CIVIL DEFENCE AND NEIGHBOURHOOD SUPPORT

Motion 3

Judith moved that the permanent agenda item ‘Civil Defence’ agreed at the last meeting, be added to include ‘Neighbourhood Support’. It was agreed that Civil Defence and Neighbourhood Support should act as a Forum Working Group, along with the other groups.

Judith is taking care of the Neighbourhood Support part, while Heston is to focus on Civil Defence.

Neighbourhood Support – for burglaries etc and also natural event risks, such as bush fire, flooding etc. Judith is hoping to set up a phone tree.

Judith read a report to the meeting outlining information about Neighbourhood Support. She will be sending this report round to all members by email.

She proposed informal Neighbourhood Support groups under a ‘street co-ordinator’ and listed all the roads involved.

The meeting was informed that anyone can sign up for emails from the Red Cross and Auckland Council to get severe weather and other Civil Defence warnings and information. Some information would be better put up on Mike Swain’s website, Puhoi Facebook page etc.

These media would not be appropriate for urgent warnings. Decisions need to be made as to which information source is the most suitable for the different types of information.

Russell Green had passed on to Judith an old copy of a Civil Defence plan called ‘A Civil Defence Emergency Plan for Puhoi and Upper Waiwera (Draft not signed off). It is professional, detailed and very comprehensive. It seems to have been dropped, however. Council funding for Civil Defence has been substantially reduced.

Judith is to report back on progress with Neighbourhood Support to the next meeting.

Civil Defence

Heston clarified that Civil Defence as such no longer exists. It is now Crisis Response Groups (CRG). Heston is getting plans regarding the flooding etc sent to him from Auckland Council. A CRG workshop is to be given for training and information on Friday 24 March in the former CD Headquarters in Auckland. Heston is to send through more email information, and it would be helpful if there could be attendees from the Forum. Further help for Heston would be useful – requests to be sent through Mike’s website. It was agreed a working group is to be formed.

Action: Heston Prospere-Smith

Heston informed the meeting that basically, Puhoi has to work out its own, independent Civil Defence plan for flooding and other natural emergencies.

2. GENERAL BUSINESS

Submission to Council re Saleyards’ Road development

This submission is not being progressed by the Council. The meeting thanked Derek Broadmore and his team for all their efforts.

Puhoi Memorial Park Reserve Management Plan

Tessa Berger stated that the plans are reviewed by the Council from time to time. However, Council has not had the resources to review the Puhoi Memorial Park plan since it was established. A new review team has been put together from 1 July 2017. She stated that as part of this review, if the community wants to change the current management plan, a proposal needs to be put forward to the Review Committee and they will build into their review. Small changes requested by the community that are currently envisaged by the plan can be done quite quickly, but other than this e.g. a café or business or community building has a long and involved process for approval. Currently it is designated as an open space area for recreation. The review process is a fully notified public process. The more the community wishes to move away from the current plan, the longer it will take. Tessa to forward information to Dustyn for circulation to members.

Existing leases on the land have their own parameters. They don’t all align with the Reserve Management plan at this point as they came under the old RDC. All this is under review under the auspices of the new Council who intend to align the old RDC regulations with the new ones.

Horse riding and future bridle ways

Paul Manton reported that horse riding community is growing in the Puhoi area. New tracks being made or repaired are being made for cycles, walkers, horses and dogs. There should be an awareness that any new track should be multi-use, and plan to provide room for horse.

Working Groups Update

Traffic Safety Group

There was a Greenway stand with a full map of tracks and trails at the Puhoi market. The Traffic Safety Group has provided feedback to Greenway on what they have proposed. A trail was indicated further down the valley which the Traffic Safety Group didn’t think would be practical. They showed the proposed future walkway to SH1 from the village on wrong side of the river. The map will be adjusted accordingly. The Traffic Safety Group raised the fact that the proposed future Puhoi to Pakiri walkway would need a car park.

Dustyn and Sorrel have done some work on Gillian’s walkway. It is intended to put in poles to mark where it begins and ends in order to open it, and after that to put in the work needed to clear it. There may be some Council funding available for this.

Not much progress has been made with the application for approval to AT regarding the timber bollards alongside the village main road to prevent parking there at busy times.

A concern was raised about adequate lighting is available to stop people falling on these.

Tessa Berger queried whether there be a more aesthetically pleasing way of creating a barrier other than timber bollards? She could talk with some people she is currently working with about this. It was agreed that Tessa could look into this and provide feedback. It might be funded.

Dustyn responded that a lot of research has been done on these bollards on this which is rustic and low cost. There is a plan for the whole centre of Puhoi to beautify it. Dustyn is to liaise with Tessa.

If the AT permissions are granted and funding is sought it was suggested that any funding

application includes more parking space up Krippner Road.

Motion 3

That once AT approval for the timber bollards is granted, that the Forum approves an application for funding for the project goes ahead, to avoid further delays.

Moved: Dustyn O’Leary

Seconded: Paul Manton

Carried

School Bus stop/congestion alternatives

Terri Ryder has spoken to a number of people involved, and one school bus route could be extended up to Remiger Road (as was previously the case). This would take a lot of congestion away from the village, and the bus would turn around in a more convenient place. This at the moment is only the Orewa children. There are 18 children (at least) involved. Terri reported that the proposal just needs to be put in writing and submitted.

Russell Green had circulated a different proposal to deal with this issue to be discussed at this Forum meeting, as an alternative to what had already been put forward. Paul Fearon had drawn up a personal response to this proposal (not discussed) and asked the secretary to pass this on to Russell. It was agreed Russell’s plan could be most useful.

It was reported that the introduction of a lower speed limit on SH1 at the Puhoi junction has been delayed for greater consultation and could be some time away from any kind of implementation.

Puhoi Heritage Little Village – Marg Nelson

Marg Nelson read a report on this topic. She stated that this is her own project, not Larry Mitchell’s. Idea for a model village were first put forward 54 years ago. Marg did not initially want to start with the Blacksmith’s shop, rather buildings on the wharf, but is happy to support this now. Marg referred to the possibility of putting up a Blacksmith’s shop (which can be taken away) by 29 June on the Council land. No application has been made to Council for grants. Marg has sought information from Council regarding what consents are needed. The Puhoi Historical Society is not a part of the Little Village project. She referred to the many settlers and descendants who built up Puhoi and who have come since.

Paul Manton thanked Marg for the clarification. Marg confirmed that the Puhoi Little Village team is still holding a public meeting on 12^th March in the community hall for all to become better informed. Paul clarified that the Forum is happy for community members to speak to the Forum about their projects, but the Little Village is not a Forum project.

New Museum premises

Gavin Donaldson raised the issue as to whether or not there might be an opportunity for the Puhoi Historical Society to use the old Schollum house which will be removed as part of the Northern Expressway project. Paul Manton commented that it has been considered by a number of interested groups. Any interested party has to prove that they have the funding and a place to put it. PHS has looked at this but agreed that it is an old building and would be costly to renovate to the right standard for a museum.

Gavin raised the fact that the Forum had already put forward to Transit NZ a wish list of items from the community should tenderers for the Northern Expressway wish to facilitate community funding. Paul responded that NZTA choses where the money goes, and it may only possibly amount to in the region of $25k. Paul reinforced his genuine support for the Museum’s need to move to a new building and stated that the Forum is behind this.

Village Market – 9^th birthday

Judith Williams reported that the previous Sunday’s market was a good day. From its proceeds

the Market gave $100 to the PHS’ children’s dance group, a further gift of money to the Ahuroa

School for fruit trees and additional money was donated to the Fire Station.

Meeting closed at 9.30pm

NEXT MEETING

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 28^th March at 7.30pm at the Puhoi Sports Club.

PUHOI COMMUNITY FORUM

MEETING TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017 at 7.30pm at

THE PUHOI SPORTS CLUB – CHAIRPERSON – DUSTYN O’LEARY

AGENDA

1. Confirmation of the Minutes of previous Meeting held on 28 February 2017

2. Matters Arising from those Minutes (not appearing on this Agenda)

3. Treasurer’s Report for February 2017 – Jenny Schollum

4. Puhoi Pioneer Memorial Park

• Update of river park walkway – Paul Manton

• Summary of Little Village Information Day held 12 March, for those unable to attend.

5. Future Projects

Could members please put forward ideas for future projects worthy of attention of the

Forum

6. General Business

(i) Civil Defence – update – Judith Williams, Heston Prosper-Smith

2. Working Groups – updates

• Traffic Safety Initiatives – Progress

• Others

1. Village market update

NEXT MEETING The next meeting will be held on Tuesday April 25 2017 at 7.30pm.