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26 February 2026 |
MINUTES OF Western Bay of Plenty District
Council
Council No. CO26-4
HELD IN THE Council Chambers, 1484 Cameron Road, Tauranga
ON Thursday, 26 February 2026 AT 9.30am
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Whakatau mai te wairua Whakawātea mai te hinengaro Whakarite mai te tinana Kia ea ai ngā mahi
Āe |
Settle the spirit Clear the mind Prepare the body To achieve what needs to be achieved. Yes |
2 Present - Ngā mema kei koneI
Mayor J Denyer, Cr T Coxhead, Cr G Dally, Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge, Cr R Joyce, Cr D Dinsdale, Cr L Rae, Cr A Sole, Cr S Beech and Cr G Elvin
3 In AttendancE - I tae ake
M Taris (Interim Chief Executive), B Singh (General Manager Infrastructure), A Curtis (General Manager Regulatory Services), M Potton (Acting General Manager Corporate Services), E Watton (Acting General Manager Strategy and Community), L Balvert (Communications Manager), R Garrett (Governance Manager), C McLean (Director Transportation), A Henderson (Programme Director – Establishment Water Services Organisation), C Ertel (Director Water Services), P van den Burg (Infrastructure Engineer Water), P Watson (Reserves and Facilities Manager), K Little (Operations Manager), M Leighton (Policy and Planning Manager), J Fearn (Chief Financial Officer), A Badenhorst (Infrastructure Growth and Delivery Manager), D Leslie (Senior Policy Analyst), S Pottage (Senior Recreation Planner), N Rutland (Environmental Planning Manager), H Wi Repa (Governance System Advisor) and P Osborne (Senior Governance Advisor)
Others in attendance
Bay of Plenty Regional Council
Chair Matemoana McDonald
Deputy Chair Glenn Dougal
Cr John Scrimgeour
Cr Iwi Te Whau
Cr Tim Maltby
AJ Prinsloo (Finance Manager)
Kumaran Perumal (Chief Financial Officer)
MartinJenkins
Sarah Baddley (via Zoom)
Media
Ayla Yeoman – Local Democracy Reporting
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Resolution CO26-4.1 Moved: Cr L Rae Seconded: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge That the apology for lateness from Cr Joyce be accepted. |
5 Consideration of Late Items - Ngā take tōmuri
Nil
6 Declarations of InteresT – Ngā tukitukinga
Nil
7 TRANSFER OF Public Excluded ItemS - Te whitinga o te ao mārama ki ngā take muna
Nil
8 Public ForuM - Wāhanga tūmatanui
Nil
9 Council - Committee Minutes for Confirmation - Te whakatau i ngā meneti ā te kaunihera, ā te komiti
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Resolution CO26-4.2 Moved: Mayor J Denyer Seconded: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge 1. That the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 25 November 2025 be confirmed as a true and correct record and the recommendations therein be adopted. 2. That the Chairperson’s electronic signature be inserted into the confirmed minutes. |
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Resolution CO26-4.3 Moved: Mayor J Denyer Seconded: Cr A Sole 1. That the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 16 December 2025 be confirmed as a true and correct record and the recommendations therein be adopted. 2. That the Chairperson’s electronic signature be inserted into the confirmed minutes. |
9.33am Cr Joyce entered the hui.
10 Presentations - Ngā whakatairanga
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Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC) Councillors and staff were in attendance to provide Council with an overview of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Annual Plan 2026/27. They spoke to PowerPoint Presentation 1 and noted the following points: · ‘Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini - Success is not the work of an individual, but the work of many’. They welcomed the Mayor and Councillors to come and speak to BOPRC at any time they wanted to, noting that relationships/partnerships were so important. · They acknowledged the amount of work that was going on around the region following the recent weather events. · They wanted to ensure that, regardless of the changes taking place, they were focused on ensuring the services they provided to the community continued. · They acknowledged the challenges of the unknown environment, specifically with the replacement of the Resource Management Act (RMA) with the two new Bills. · They outlined the key points within their draft Annual Plan 2026/27, including those specific to the Western Bay. · They provided an overview of their planned consultation events, including when and how they were planning to undertake them. · The first topic that BOPRC was consulting on was the Long Term Plan Amendment, around optimising long-term regional investment. · The second topic they were consulting on was the Annual Plan 2026/27, around investing in regional benefit by establishing a Regional Benefit Fund for 2026/27. · The third topic they were consulting on was around investing in indigenous biodiversity, seeking feedback on whether to invest less, the same or more.
They responded to pātai as follows: · The rationale used by the previous Council for the sell down was to diversify the risk of Quayside’s investment portfolio, noting that $2 Billion of that was invested in the Port of Tauranga. Advisors had noted that they were in no rush to sell these shares, and would only do so at the most optimal time for the community, if at all. · The purpose of the proposed Regional Benefit Fund was to grow and maintain as an intergenerational fund, noting that the Annual Plan topic was more around using the dividends and reserves of the regional Council to create the new fund. The importance of being able to use a fund to be nimble was something they would be considering through the feedback sought during the consultation period. · They believed the timing for introducing this regional benefit was right, despite the potential changes looming, noting these had been discussions around the Regional Council table for some time, and they were hearing from other Mayors that this was needed. · There was considerable discussion at the Regional Transport Committee in relation to growth in the Eastern side of the district. It was noted that one of the challenges in relation to the regional plan was that the responsibility of local roads still sat with the Territorial Authority (TA). For this reason, this was not a priority within the Regional Transport Committee. · Staff were working closely with landowners in the area of Pāpāmoa Hills to help re-open some of the tracks, following the latest storm events. · BOPRC were open to come to events already scheduled within the Western Bay of Plenty District should they be available, and they encouraged staff to connect in relation to this. · The Harbour Master was one of the services that the BOPRC provided that they were concerned about, in relation to the retention of that service. With the changes looming they were unsure where this would end up, therefore they had included in their consultation the importance of the Harbour Master role and it’s continuation. · They were developing a strategy in relation to Biosecurity. Given this was a regional strategy there would be engagement with the Territorial Local Authorities when developing. · Through the Mayoral Forum, there were conversations around how BOPRC and the Territorial Local Authorities could look at a regional plan by collating current sub-regional plans and identifying gaps.
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10.20am The hui adjourned.
10.38am The hui reconvened.
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Policy and Planning Manager, who was supported by the Acting General Manager Corporate Services in providing an overview of the report and recommendations therein. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · It was noted that the costs of the recent weather events (29 January 2026) had not been included in the draft Annual Plan, noting that most uncertainty sat around what funding sources would be available to Council. · The current cost estimate around the district for repair work was $40 Million.
Council took the recommendations in part, to address each Issues and Options Paper individually. |
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Resolution CO26-4.4 Moved: Cr T Coxhead Seconded: Cr L Rae 1. That the Policy and Planning Manager’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Annual Plan 2026/27 Issues and Options’, be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of medium significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. |
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Issue 3a Transportation Funding - NZTA Waka Kotahi Subsidy Impacts |
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Council considered Issue 3a being ‘Transportation Funding – NZTA Waka Kotahi Subsidy Impacts’. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · The Pothole Prevention Subsidy was coming from the National Land Transport Fund (NLTF). Waka Kotahi NZTA was in charge of delegating that funding out. · The Pothole Prevention Fund covered re-sealing and doing work on the carriageway to prevent potholes, therefore it was remedial and prevention work only. |
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Resolution CO26-4.5 Moved: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge Seconded: Cr L Rae 3. That Council resolves the following decisions as discussed in reports provided in Attachment 1 to inform the Consultation Document for the draft Annual Plan 2026/27: a. Transportation Funding - NZTA Waka Kotahi Subsidy Impacts i. Option 1 That Council approves to: · Allocate $7.0m of the available subsidy into Pothole Prevention and adjust work programmes accordingly. · Use the $500k balance to reduce Council’s debt deficit. · Fund the shortfall in Operations from rates of $3.1m. |
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Reasons for decision: · Enabled existing (ONMC) tactical and operational levels of service to be met for most activities. · Enabled surfacing renewal and pavement rehabilitation programmes to keep pace with network deterioration. · Aligned with the strategic priority: “Providing resilient, well maintained, and efficient infrastructure”. · Regular preventative maintenance extends asset life reducing the need for future expensive rehabilitation treatments and/or reactive maintenance. · Greater public satisfaction and trust in council services. · A well-maintained network supports the local economy by ensuring that goods, services, and people can travel safely and efficiently. · Increased opportunities for additional subsidy from NZTA.
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Council considered Issue 3b being ‘Community Board Funding’. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · The grant fund for Matakana and Rangiwaea Islands was a set amount of $1,312 (GST inclusive). Discussion around this would still need to be had with iwi and hapū, should option 1 be approved.
The Mayor noted that there was a need to add an additional resolution if Council resolved to move Option 1, due to this going against a current Council policy. It was noted that Council’s Policy was for Council to fund Community Boards from a targeted rate only, whereas this option sought to partially fund the administration costs associated with the Boards from the General Rate. An additional resolution was proposed accordingly.
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Resolution CO26-4.6 Moved: Cr R Joyce Seconded: Cr T Coxhead 3. That Council resolves the following decisions as discussed in reports provided in Attachment 1 to inform the Consultation Document for the draft Annual Plan 2026/27: b. Community Board Funding i. Option 1 That Council for the purposes of consultation: Sets a Targeted Rate for the Community Boards, based on the Community Board areas of representation as contained in Attachment A. AND That Council proposes set Targeted Rates as follows (GST inclusive): o Katikati Community Board area: $12.66 per rateable property o Waihī Beach Community Board area: $15.34 per rateable property o Maketū Community Board area: $58.65 per rateable property o Te Puke-Eastern Community Board area: $20.19 per rateable property o Ōmokoroa-Kaimai Community Board area: $16.02 per rateable property AND That the Community Boards are partially funded by General Rates at approximately $9.65 (GST inclusive) per rateable unit. AND That a grant of approximately $1,312 (GST inclusive) from General Rates be allocated to Marae on Matakana and Rangiwaea Islands noting that ratepayers on these Islands are not included within a community board area of benefit. AND That, in accordance with Section 80 of the Local Government Act (LGA 2002), Council notes that this decision does not align with Council’s Revenue and Financing Policy due to partially funding the Community Boards from the General Rate, and notes that Council intends to review the Revenue and Financing Policy through the Long Term Plan 2027-2037. |
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Reasons for decision: · Ensured everyone was contributing towards the funding of community boards. · The scale of the funding would deliver a budget that would allow the new community boards to deliver on their aspirations. · Considered the impact of the higher cost of operating the Maketū Community Board and ensured that the district was not subsidising Maketū residents, who were the ones that primarily benefited from their community board. · Ensured the direct costs of representation were funded by those they represented.
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Council considered Issue 3c being ‘Community Roading Allocation’. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · As an example, the policy set out that the allocation was for Ōmokoroa only (urban area) rather than the whole Kaimai Ward, however the Ōmokoroa-Kaimai Community Board had the ability to use Section 80 to make a decision that sat outside of the current Community Roading Allocation Policy should they wish to spend outside of the urban area. · The rural community had a separate allocation for roading; the amount was not available to staff in the meeting, however they would feed this back.
Councillors signalled that they would like to take the two options in parts. |
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Resolution CO26-4.7 Moved: Cr A Sole Seconded: Cr D Dinsdale 3. That Council resolves the following decisions as discussed in reports provided in Attachment 1 to inform the Consultation Document for the draft Annual Plan 2026/27: c. Community Roading Allocation i. Option 1a That Council reviews the Policy for Allocation of Community Roading Funding with the implementation of the policy to be considered through the Long Term Plan 2027-37. |
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Reasons for decision: · The Policy continued to set parameters for the use of and allocation of funding for Community Roading for the 2026/27 Annual Plan. · Would be undertaken alongside Community Boards and development of the Long Term Plan. · Could create a transparent, measurable framework for funding decisions. · Could simplify calculation methods and align allocations with strategic objectives and levels of service outcomes. · Retained some level of community involvement while improving accountability. · Could address equity concerns by introducing clear prioritisation standards. · Allowed adjustments to reflect new Community Board boundaries and urban/rural expectations.
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Resolution CO26-4.8 Moved: Cr A Sole Seconded: Mayor J Denyer 3. That Council resolves the following decisions as discussed in reports provided in Attachment 1 to inform the Consultation Document for the draft Annual Plan 2026/27: c. Community Roading Allocation i. Option 2a Reduce the community roading fund for 2026/27 to $500,000 and allocate the funds in line with the Policy for Allocation of Community Roading Funding, for the 2026/27 year, as follows:
A division was called and voted on as follows: For: Cr Sole, Cr Joyce, Cr Elvin, Deputy Mayor Murray-Benge, Mayor Denyer, Cr Dally and Cr Beech. Against: Cr Rae, Cr Coxhead and Cr Dinsdale. The motion was declared carried on show of hands. |
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Reasons for decision: · Lower allocation reduced the risk of accumulating reserves due to delays in project delivery. · Helped manage Council’s overall budget pressures and ratepayer affordability in a constrained economic environment. · Indicated that Council was reviewing the Policy and funding model, while still providing some funding for community priorities. · Avoided rating for projects that could not realistically be delivered within the financial year. · Provided a level of funds for ‘discretionary’ local roading improvements. · Familiar process for Community Boards and staff. · Consistent with existing Policy. |
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Council considered Issue 3d being ‘Water Supply Funding’. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · This topic would be worth signalling to the community due to the proposed increase in comparison to what was indicated through the Long Term Plan (LTP).
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Resolution CO26-4.9 Moved: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge Seconded: Cr R Joyce 3. That Council resolves the following decisions as discussed in reports provided in Attachment 1 to inform the Consultation Document for the draft Annual Plan 2026/27: d. Water Supply Funding i. Option 1 That Council increases the volumetric charge by 15% from $1.75/m3 to $2.01/m3. |
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Reasons for decision: · Increased revenue for water supply by an estimated $1.03 Million. · Was consistent with a user pays philosophy. · Did not further increase fixed charges. |
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Issue 3e Te Puke Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Funding Splits |
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Council considered Issue 3e being ‘Te Puke Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Funding Splits’. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · The proposed change to the funding splits was that staff had readjusted who benefited from the different components of the Te Puke Wastewater Treatment Plant. The fundamental difference was the shift of some of the funding to come from a future Financial Contribution (FinCo). · It was clarified that this decision did not differ in any way to what Council resolved last year, however was ensuring that the decision was reflected ‘administratively’ through the Annual Plan process. |
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Resolution CO26-4.10 Moved: Cr D Dinsdale Seconded: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge 3. That Council resolves the following decisions as discussed in reports provided in Attachment 1 to inform the Consultation Document for the draft Annual Plan 2026/27: e. Te Puke Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Funding Splits i. Option 1 That Council approves the updated funding splits for the Te Puke Wastewater Treatment Plant to be: a) 41.9% - Existing Ratepayers (Via Wastewater Uniform Targeted Rate); b) 12.5% - Te Puke Growth Stage A (Via Financial Contributions); c) 9.7% - Te Puke Growth Stage B (Via Financial Contribution loan to be recovered by financial contributions at a later stage, once planning enables it; and d) 35.9% - Rangiuru Business Park.
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Cr Rae voted against the motion and requested for her vote against to be recorded. |
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Reasons for decision: · Provided a fair and equitable funding model, aligning with current updated costs estimates and plant design. · No impact on rates. |
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Council considered Issue 3f being ‘Local Water Done Well’. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · It was clarified that there was a need for a digital system regardless of what option the Council resolved in terms of their Local Water Done Well decision. It was noted, however, that there would be an additional cost should Council decide to go with a stand alone model, as there would need to be work to integrate the required digital system into Council’s current ERP system. · This proposal was for Council’s share of the costs only, so there would be an additional cost if Council was to cover the full cost.
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Resolution CO26-4.11 Moved: Cr R Joyce Seconded: Cr D Dinsdale 3. That Council resolves the following decisions as discussed in reports provided in Attachment 1 to inform the Consultation Document for the draft Annual Plan 2026/27: f. Local Water Done Well i. Option 1 That Council approves an additional $1.2m (loan funded to be transferred to the Water Organisation) to fund Phase 2 (ERP – finance, customer, regulatory, capital planning) Digital system requirements for the Water Services Organisation. AND Notes this funding request is subject to a further decision in March 2026 to proceed with Phase 2. |
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Cr Rae voted against the motion and requested for her vote against to be recorded. |
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Reasons for decision: · Phase 2 IT system improvements would be approved separately (would only be spent if required and approved by Council) · Allowed full ringfencing, and autonomy for the Water Services Organisation to complete its reporting and regulatory requirements. · May reduce stranded overhead costs for Council.
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Council considered Issue 3g being ‘Fluoride Free Water Supply Points’. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · As an example, if Council was to install a tap in the Katikati CBD, where there was already fluoride in the water, it would have to go through a process called ‘Reverse Osmosis’. Although this may seem like an easy process, Council was required to take additional steps before and after that process to ensure quality of the water was maintained at all times. This was where the cost was driven up. · In relation to Waihī Beach, staff advised that installing a tap at the Water Treatment Plant itself would be the best option if a tap was required, due to the location. · It was acknowledged that the Waihī Beach Water Treatment Plant system was not in operation in off seasons, therefore the tap would either not be available, or the water would need to be stored and monitored accordingly to allow access while the system was not in operation. · Option 3 would require a $60,000 capital cost, and a $5,000 annual cost.
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Resolution CO26-4.12 Moved: Cr T Coxhead Seconded: Cr S Beech 3. That Council resolves the following decisions as discussed in reports provided in Attachment 1 to inform the Consultation Document for the draft Annual Plan 2026/27: g. Fluoride Free Water Supply Points i. Option 3 That Council approves the additional budget of $60,000 for the Installation of a Fluoride-Free water supply point at the Waihī Beach Water Treatment Plant site.
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Cr Elvin abstained from voting. |
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Reasons for decision: · Responded to community requests. · Provided an alternative for those concerned about fluoridation. · Easily accessible fluoride free water supply to the local communities. · Site located in Waihī Beach town on Wilson Road, not far from the CBD. |
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Council considered Issue 4 being ‘Structure Plan 2026/27’, as shown in Attachment 2 of the report. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · There were changes anticipated in Te Puke in relation to additional funds required for Wastewater – Te Puke Structure Plan: Raymond Avenue to Dunlop Road. There was a query around whether there was an alternative route, it was noted that staff were still looking into the possibility of this. |
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Resolution CO26-4.13 Moved: Cr L Rae Seconded: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge 4. That Council formally receives the updates to the Structure Plans 2026/27 (as set out in Attachment 2). |
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Council considered Issue 5 being ‘Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC)’. Motion Moved: Mayor Denyer Seconded: Cr Rae 5. That Council sets the Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC) at $560 for the purposes of the preparing the Annual Plan 2026/27. amendment Moved: Cr Joyce Seconded: Cr Dally 5. That Council sets the Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC) at $400 for the purposes of the preparing the Annual Plan 2026/27.
A division was called and voted on as follows: For: Cr Joyce, Cr Dally, Cr Coxhead and Cr Sole. Against: Cr Beech, Cr Rae, Cr Elvin, Deputy Mayor Murray-Benge, Mayor Denyer, and Cr Dinsdale. The motion was declared lost on show of hands. 4/6 LOST
The following became the SUBSTANTIVE MOTION. |
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Resolution CO26-4.14 Moved: Mayor J Denyer Seconded: Cr L Rae 5. That Council sets the Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC) at $560 for the purposes of the preparing the Annual Plan 2026/27. |
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Resolution CO26-4.15 Moved: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge Seconded: Cr D Dinsdale 6. That Council approves the assessment of significance and materiality (as per Attachment 4). 7. That Council determines that Consultation on the Annual Plan 2026/27 be undertaken in general accordance with the approach proposed in this report. 8. That Council approves the draft financials as per Attachment 5, subject to any changes as a result of the above resolutions, and directs the Chief Executive to prepare the Consultation Document, including supporting information, for the Annual Plan.
A division was called and voted on as follows: For: Cr Dinsdale, Cr Dally, Cr Coxhead, Cr Rae, Cr Beech, Deputy Mayor Murray- Benge and Mayor Denyer. Against: Cr Elvin, Cr Sole and Cr Joyce.
The motion was declared carried on show of hands. |
1.18pm The hui adjourned.
1.48pm The hui reconvened.
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11.2 Western Bay of Plenty District Financial Sustainability - MartinJenkins Overview |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Financial Analyst. Sarah Baddley and Nick Carlaw were in attendance via Zoom on behalf of MartinJenkins to provide an overview of the Western Bay of Plenty District Financial Sustainability. They spoke to Attachment 1 which was a PowerPoint presentation. Presenters responded to pātai as follows: · It was clarified that the ‘nearest neighbour’ was done comparatively, therefore Western Bay of Plenty District was not being compared to Tauranga City, but rather Councils who were similar to Western Bay such as; Tasman District Council, Waipa District Council, Waimakariri District Council, Kāpiti District Council and Napier City Council. · Through the analysis it was noted that Council was more dependent on rates than others. The rationale for this was not clear through the data, so advisors were working with staff to get more of an understanding of this, noting it may be down to the fees schedule. · In relation to looking at where Council raised their rates, and whether that was commercial, residential or rural, presenters noted that they had looked at the different revenue sources, however noted that it was about the strategies around revenue and financing, as well as the processes and policies. · MartinJenkins undertook many reviews with other organisations, Central Government and other councils, therefore brought that experience and judgement when they were providing their insights. It was acknowledged that there could be an opportunity for them to talk to externals as well, specifically in the regulatory area. · The MartinJenkins review scope did not include a deep dive into Levels of Service, however it was noted that their findings might have recommendations to consider certain areas of improvement or further review. · There were different revenue sources for different councils, noting that the higher proportion of rates recovery was often around fees and charges and cost recovery. · As well as looking at Service Delivery Models, they had also looked at procurement capability, and whether these were fit for purpose for the future.
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Resolution CO26-4.16 Moved: Cr A Sole Seconded: Cr R Joyce That the Financial Analyst’s report dated 26 February 2026, titled ‘Western Bay of Plenty District Financial Sustainability – MartinJenkins Overview’, be received. |
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11.3 Construction of new stormwater pond at 25 Prole Road to address design deficiency on Prole Road Urbanisation Project |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Infrastructure Growth and Delivery Manager who provided an overview of the report and recommendations therein. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · The Prole Road Urbanisation project was partly funded by the ‘shovel ready funding’ and the rest by Financial Contributions (FinCos). · The ‘shovel ready funding’ received had now been spent. · To ensure a design deficiency did not happen again, staff would ensure future consultants provided a full handover brief on the designs. · There was a possibility that there could be additional savings if future designs did not require as much land.
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Resolution CO26-4.17 Moved: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge Seconded: Cr D Dinsdale 1. That the Infrastructure Growth and Delivery Manager’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Construction of new stormwater pond at 25 Prole Road to address design deficiency on Prole Road Urbanisation Project’, be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That Council approves the construction of a permanent stormwater pond at 25 Prole Road base on Option 4 – Wet Pond within Gully. 4. That Council approves the reallocation of up to $2.5 Million from identified underspends within the Ōmokoroa Stormwater Programme to deliver the 25 Prole Road Stormwater Pond. 5. That Council delegates authority to the Chief Executive to award and execute the construction contract for 25 Prole Road Stormwater Pond, provided the contract value does not exceed the approved project budget of $2.5 Million (including contingency). |
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11.4 Land Exchange - 340 Ōmokoroa Road with part of Kaimai Views Reserve, Ōmokoroa - Submission period ended |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Reserves and Facilities Manager, who provided an overview of the report and recommendations therein. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · A Traffic Impact Assessment had been undertaken through the consenting process, and was accepted as adequate, noting it met the development code. · Staff did not follow up with Tangata Whenua who did not respond to initial engagement requests.
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Resolution CO26-4.18 Moved: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge Seconded: Cr T Coxhead 1. That the Reserves and Facilities Manager’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Land Exchange - 340 Ōmokoroa Road with part of Kaimai Views Reserve, Ōmokoroa - Submission period ended’, be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That pursuant to s.15 of the Reserves Act 1977 Council resolves to exchange reserve land for other adjoining land generally as per the attached plan (Attachment 2) between 340 Ōmokoroa Road being Section 1 SO 503077 owned by WFT Property Two Limited and Lot 253 DP 538477 being part of Kaimai Views Reserve, Ōmokoroa, as required by s.119 of the Reserves Act 1977. |
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11.5 Seeking Approval for Lessee to Include Café Operations within Lease Agreement at Bowentown Beach Holiday Park |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Operations Manager. The Reserves and Facilities Manager took the report as read. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · Acknowledgement was made of the cost and process that had to be undertaken for the Holiday Park to “sell coffee”, however it was noted that members of the community were not always supportive of these proposals. It was therefore important for Council to consult. · The engagement and feedback received by the Community Boards did not have to be done through a formal meeting, noting that for this particular issue, they were made aware that the consultation was taking place and they could provide any feedback to staff.
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Resolution CO26-4.19 Moved: Cr T Coxhead Seconded: Cr R Joyce 1. That the Operations Manager’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Seeking Approval for Lessee to include café operations within lease agreement at Bowentown Beach Holiday Park’, be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That, after considering the submissions received, Council, as the administering body of the reserve and acting under its delegated powers pursuant to the Reserves Act 1977, approves entering into a variation of the Bowentown Holidays Limited lease to include café operations in accordance with section 54(1)(d) of the Reserves Act 1977. 4. If approval is given, such approval must not be construed by the applicant as a guarantee that all other consents required by any policy, by-law, regulation or statute, will be forthcoming. The applicant is responsible for obtaining all required consents at its own cost. |
11.6 Appointment of Alternate Local Controller for Western Bay of Plenty District Council |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Executive Assistant Infrastructure Group. The Reserves and Facilities Manager took the report as read.
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Resolution CO26-4.20 Moved: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge Seconded: Cr D Dinsdale 1. That the Executive Assistant Infrastructure Group’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Appointment of Local Controller for Western Bay of Plenty District Council’ be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That Council, in accordance with the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002, and the Bay of Plenty Emergency Management Group Policy for selection and appointment of Local Controllers and Local Recovery Managers, Western Bay of Plenty District Council: a) Acknowledges the change in role of Adele Henderson and recommends that her appointment to the position of Local Controller be rescinded; and b) Recommends to the Bay of Plenty Joint Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee that Bradley Singh be appointed as Alternate Local Controller, Western Bay of Plenty District Council. c) Recommends to the Bay of Plenty Joint Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee that Matthew Leighton be appointed as Alternate Local Controller, Western Bay of Plenty District Council. |
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11.7 Draft Policy for Setting Rent for Community Organisations Using Council Land or Buildings Consultation |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Senior Policy Analyst, who provided an overview of the report and recommendations therein. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · In relation to Hunter Reserve in Katikati, it was noted that Council spent a fair amount of money when they took it over to bring the building up to standard. Staff acknowledged the croquet club as tenants and the amount of work they did in looking after the building. · There were 20 volunteer organisations across the district that only paid a base fee of $250 per annum, as opposed to rent. · Council had previously indicated that they wished to see any commercial proposals and that they were considered on a case-by-case basis, noting that the proposed changes to the policy entrenched the ability for this. · It was confirmed that if Council adopted the changes to the draft policy, it would allow council to review the fees should they wish to do so through the Schedule of Fees and Charges, noting that this was reviewed annually through the Annual Plan/Long Term Plan.
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Resolution CO26-4.21 Moved: Cr G Dally Seconded: Cr A Sole 1. That the Senior Policy Analyst’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Draft Policy for Setting Land Rentals for Club Buildings on Council Land for Consultation’ be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That the draft Policy for Setting Rent for Community Organisations using Council Land and Buildings, as set out in Attachment 1 of this report, and the accompanying Statement of Proposal, as set out in Attachment 2 be adopted for consultation, from 20 March 2026 – 20 April 2026. 4. That the Chief Executive is authorised to make any required editorial changes to the draft Policy for Setting Rent for Community Organisations using Council Land and Buildings and/or Statement of Proposal. |
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Resolution CO26-4.22 Moved: Mayor J Denyer Seconded: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge That in accordance with Standing Order 4.2, Council confirms to continue with the remaining business of the meeting, noting that the meeting duration is longer than six hours. |
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11.8 Delegation of Decision-Making and Update to Policy for Facilities in the Community Fund 2026/27 |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Senior Recreation Planner, who provided an overview of the report and recommendations therein. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · At this time, the Facilities in the Community Fund and the Community Facilities Fund held separate purposes and came through different funding sources, which meant, according to the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, they could not be combined. It was acknowledged, however, that there could be reference made as to how the two funds interacted through the policy. · The primary change of the criteria was for council land to also be considered within the applications, noting that it had to be managed by a community entity.
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Resolution CO26-4.23 Moved: Cr R Joyce Seconded: Cr T Coxhead 1. That the Senior Recreation Planner’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Delegation of decision-making and update to policy for Facilities in the Community Fund 2026/27’ be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That Council adopts the revised Facilities in the Community Fund Policy as provided within Attachment 1: Proposed updates to the Facilities in the Community Fund Policy V1 - track changes 4. That Council approves for the Facilities in the Community Fund to be opened for applications between 20 March and 20 April 2026. 5. That, pursuant to Clause 32 Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002, Council delegates Councillor Sole, Councillor Coxhead and Councillor Dally the power to make decisions in respect of applications to the Facilities in the Community Fund 2026/27, including but not limited to the following powers: i. To award grants according to the purpose and guidelines of the Facilities in the Community Fund 2026, within the allocated contestable budget of $116,812. |
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11.9 Spatial Planning Documents for Waihī Beach-Bowentown-Athenree, Katikati, and Te Puna-Minden |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Environmental Planning Manager, who provided an overview of the report and attachments.
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Resolution CO26-4.24 Moved: Cr G Dally Seconded: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge 1. That the Environmental Planning Manager’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Spatial Planning Documents for Waihī Beach-Bowentown-Athenree, Katikati, Te Puna-Minden’, be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That the following reports be received: a. Baseline Report February 2026 Katikati Spatial Planning (Attachment 1) b. Baseline Report February 2026 Te Puna-Minden Spatial Planning (Attachment 2) c. Baseline Report February 2026 Waihī Beach-Bowentown-Athenree Spatial Planning (Attachment 3) d. Katikati Spatial Plan Ideas Summary - Summary of discussions from Community Ideas Forums January 2026 (Attachment 4) e. Te Puna-Minden Spatial Plan Ideas Summary - Summary of discussions from Community Ideas Forums January 2026 (Attachment 5) f. Waihī Beach-Bowentown-Athenree Spatial Plan Ideas Summary - Summary of discussions from Community Ideas Forums January 2026 (Attachment 6) g. Community Ideas Forum – Katikati Session Notes (Attachment 7) h. Community Ideas Forum – Te Puna-Minden Session Notes (Attachment 8) i. Community Ideas Forum – Waihī Beach-Bowentown-Athenree Session Notes (Attachment 9) |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Chief Financial Officer, who provided an overview of the report and some key points to note. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · The ‘revised for year budget’ related to the original Annual Plan budget, with the adjustments for carry forwards, whereas the ‘forecast for year actuals’ was what Council was now looking at as the landing position for the end of June 2026. · In relation to operating surplus, staff considered Council was close to where they forecasted. It was likely that Council’s debt position was higher than forecasted as the costs came through from the January 2026 weather event, noting that they still were not sure how much funding was received following the event. · Whilst the forecast surplus of $43 Million seemed high, this was included in the $51 Million subsidies, noting that the majority was used to fund the capital works programme. · More information would come to Council in relation to why there was no consent budgeting undertaken for 109 Clarke Road. · In relation to the metered water budget, this took place in various cycles, so was budgeted as relatively flat through the 12 months. Dependant on the billing cycles, this went up or down. · Staff acknowledged that they had been working on ensuring what was reported to the Projects and Monitoring Committee and the Audit, Risk and Finance Committee was aligned to show a holistic picture for Councillors.
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Resolution CO26-4.25 Moved: Cr R Joyce Seconded: Cr T Coxhead That the Chief Financial Officer’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Monthly Financial Report - 31 December 2025’, be received. |
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11.11 Independent Assurance Report of the Debenture Trust Deed for the year ended 30 June 2025 |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Financial Analyst. The report was taken as read. |
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Resolution CO26-4.26 Moved: Cr G Dally Seconded: Cr G Elvin That the Financial Analyst’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Independent Assurance report of the Debenture Trust Deed for the Year ended 30 June 2025’ be received. |
3.39pm The hui adjourned.
3.56pm The hui reconvened.
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11.12 Audit, Risk and Finance Committee appointed member voting rights |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Governance Manager, who provided an overview of the report and recommendations therein. Staff responded to pātai as follows: · The general principle was that membership of a committee was the same unless specified differently.
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Resolution CO26-4.27 Moved: Cr T Coxhead Seconded: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge 1. That the Governance Manager’s report dated 26 February 2026, titled ‘Audit, Risk and Finance Committee appointed member voting rights’, be received. 2. That Council agrees that the appointed member of the Audit, Risk and Finance Committee does not have voting rights as a member of the Committee, and amends the Committee’s Terms of Reference accordingly to read:
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11.13 Bay of Plenty Mayoral Forum Triennial Agreement 2025-2028 |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Governance Manager who provided an overview of the report and recommendations therein.
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Resolution CO26-4.28 Moved: Mayor J Denyer Seconded: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge 1. That the Governance Manager’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Bay of Plenty Mayoral Forum Triennial Agreement 2025-2028’, be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That Council notes that the Local Government Act 2002 requires, not later than 1 March after each triennial general election, all local authorities within each region to enter into a triennial agreement covering the period until the next election. 4. That Council endorses the: (a) Bay of Plenty Mayoral Forum Triennial Agreement 2025-2028 (Attachment 1). (b) Bay of Plenty Mayoral Forum Terms of Reference (Attachment 2). (c) Protocol for Bay of Plenty RMA Policy and Plans (Attachment 3). 5. That Council notes the proposed approach to roll-over the existing Protocol for Bay of Plenty RMA Policy and Plans, with any necessary updates to be made to the Protocol document or process once the RMA reforms have been confirmed and are in force. 6. That Council delegates to the Chief Executive Officer and the Mayor the authority to make any minor amendments as required as a result of minor changes requested by Bay of Plenty local authorities, as part of the approval process. |
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Council considered a report dated 26 February 2026 from the Mayor, who provided an overview of the report. The Mayor and CEO responded to pātai as follows: · The Bay of Plenty Mayoral Forum was often about the bigger strategic decisions, and how the region wanted to work together. It was noted that the challenge was that there were no funding decisions, and therefore it could be harder to get things done. · In relation to the Simplifying Local Government submission, it was noted that the submission period had only just closed, so they were hoping to hear back from Central Government in the near future. The Mayor provided an overview of the submission from the Bay of Plenty Mayoral Forum, noting it was aligned with the submission that Council made. · The CEO noted that they were close to proceeding with ground works in relation to Thunder Ridge, however noted that Council needed to ensure that TCC were brought along in the journey given they owned 50% of it. Councillors noted that they would like to see the induction tour of TECT Park rescheduled, acknowledging that it was cancelled at the end of 2025.
The Mayor provided an update in relation to the below:
Mayoral Relief Fund Deputy Mayor Murray-Benge, Cr Dinsdale and the Mayor had received $800,000 worth of applications, of which they had $100,000 to give away. They continued to work through these applications.
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Resolution CO26-4.29 Moved: Mayor J Denyer Seconded: Cr A Sole That the Mayor’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Mayor’s Report to Council’, be received. |
12 Information for Receipt - Kōrero te whiwhia
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12.2 Western Bay of Plenty District Council submission on Land Transport (Revenue) Amendment Bill |
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This report was taken as information only. No further discussion was had. |
13 Resolution to Exclude the PubliC - Whakatau ki te poro i te marea
RESOLUTION TO EXCLUDE THE PUBLIC
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Resolution CO26-4.30 Moved: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge Seconded: Cr G Elvin That the public be excluded from the following parts of the proceedings of this meeting. The general subject matter of each matter to be considered while the public is excluded, the reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter, and the specific grounds under section 48 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 for the passing of this resolution are as follows:
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Resolution CO26-4.33 Moved: Mayor J Denyer Seconded: Cr L Rae That Council moves out of Closed Council into Open Council. |
resolutions transferred into open section
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13.1 Tourism Bay of Plenty - Trustee Appointment and Recruitment |
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Resolution CO26-4.31 Moved: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge Seconded: Cr T Coxhead 1. That the Community and Strategic Relationship Manager’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Tourism Bay of Plenty – Trustee Appointment and Recruitment’, be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That Council approves the reappointment of Russ Browne to the Tourism Bay of Plenty Board for a further one year period to 30 June 2027, and his appointment as Chair. 4. That Council approves the reappointment of Janine Tulloch to the Tourism Bay of Plenty Board for a further three years to 30 June 2029. 5. That Council approves the recruitment of two new trustees to the Tourism Bay of Plenty Board to replace Peter Blakeway and Andrea Webster from 1 July 2026. 6. That Council notes Tauranga City Council as joint shareholder of Tourism Bay of Plenty approved the appointments of Russ Browne and Janine Tulloch at their Council meeting on 10th February 2026. 7. That the Resolutions be transferred into the Open section of the meeting once the incumbents have been notified. |
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13.2 Road Stopping Land Exchange Burd Road Oropi |
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Resolution CO26-4.32 Moved: Deputy Mayor M Murray-Benge Seconded: Cr S Beech 1. That the Legal Property Officer’s report dated 26 February 2026 titled ‘Road Stopping Land Exchange, Burd Road, Oropi’ be received. 2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 3. That Council declines to uphold the objections put forward by Herenga ā Nuku and, unless objections are withdrawn, will proceed to the Environment Court for a decision. 4. That the Resolutions be transferred into the Open section following the meeting. |
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Cr Elvin abstained from voting. |
The Meeting closed at 5.23pm.
Confirmed as a true and correct record at the Council meeting held 23 April 2026.
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Mayor J Denyer
CHAIRPERSON / MAYOR