Agenda of Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting

Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting Minutes

12 February 2026

Unconfirmed

MINUTES OF Western Bay of Plenty District Council
Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting No. TECB26-1
HELD IN THE Te Puke Library and Service Centre, 130 Jellicoe Street, Te Puke (Boardroom) ON Thursday, 12 February 2026 AT 6.30pm

Councillor D Dinsdale open the hui with a karakia

1 Present - Ngā mema kei konei

Chairperson D Snell, Member K Summerhays, Deputy S Benning, Member M Singh Mann, Member M Williams, Cr L Rae and Cr G Dally

2 In AttendancE - I tae ake

A Curtis (General Manager Regulatory Services), E Logan (Governance Advisor)

9 Members of the public

Councillor D Dinsdale, Councillor A Sole, Councillor S Beech and Regional Bay of Plenty District Councillor S Scrimgeour

3 ApologieS - Ngā whakapahā

Nil

4 Consideration of Late ItemS - Ngā take tōmuri

Resolution TECB26-1.1

Moved: Member K Summerhays

Seconded: Member M Williams

That in accordance with Section 46A (7) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act, the following item be considered as a late item of the open business:

? Te Puke – Eastern Community Board – Councillors Report – February 2026.

Carried

5 Declarations of InteresT - Ngā tukitukinga

Chairperson D Snell declared an interest in the agenda item 9.3.

6 TRANSFER OF Public Excluded Items - Te whitinga o te ao mārama ki ngā take muna

Nil

7 Public ForuM - Wāhanga tūmatanui

7.1 Isabelle Vosse - Safety Concerns on Stock Road

Ms Vosse, supported by Ms Holland, Ms Treadgold, and Mr Matthews, was in attendance to discuss safety concerns on Stock Road.

? Ms Vosse had attended the last Te Puke Community Board meeting at the end of the 2022-25 triennium to discuss safety concerns on Stock Road. The Board at the time encouraged her to attend the first meeting of the new Te Puke – Eastern Community Board in the 2025-28 triennium.

? She raised serious concerns regarding ongoing safety issues on Stock Road caused by the on-going criminal activity. Noting that on top of the drug related activity in the area, there had now been reports of children being approached and asked to get into strangers vehicles.

? Ms Vosse had applied for CCTV funding through Council’s CCTV panel, as had the Toy Library and the Playcentre. Unfortunately, all applications had been declined.

? Ms Vosse asked the Board to consider funding the installation of additional CCTV cameras in the area to help deter criminal activity. She also requested that other preventative safety measures be implemented as well.

? Ms Vosse emphasised the importance of taking action, noting that the area is home to several organisations that provide care and support for children.

7.2 Sue Matthews - Shade Cover over Public Seating Area

Ms Matthews was in attendance to discuss the installation of a shade cover over the public seating area outside Woolworths.

? Ms Matthews proposed that the Board fund a permanent structure over the public seating area outside Woolworths to provide shelter.

? She noted the area was heavily used by local elders in the mornings, including when it was hot or lightly raining, and that a shelter would benefit them.

? Ms Matthews mentioned that local homeless often occupied the shaded stairs near the seating area, making the pathway difficult to use. She stated that a sheltered area would provide them a place to sit while remaining less visible from the main street and maintaining a safe, open environment.

? She recommended a gazebo-style structure, incorporating a kiwifruit slice detail under the gables and suggested including a history board along the side of the structure.

? She also observed that the adjacent gardens needed a thorough tidy-up and that the area lacked crime prevention through environmental design strategies.

7.3 Kassie Ellis - Various Topics

Ms Ellis was in attendance to discuss the below topics:

Citizens RSA Te Puke ANZAC Committee Grant Application

? Ms Ellis encouraged the Board to support Te Puke ANZAC Committee Grant Application.

? She noted that the event was significant and important for the community.

Community Response Equipment

? Ms Ellis encouraged the Board to discuss purchasing more Community Response Equipment, such as walkie talkies, to strengthen the community response to natural disasters.

7.4 Bryan Leach - Various Topics

Mr Leach was in attendance on behalf of the Te Puke Streetscape Group to discuss the installation of a footpath on No.1 Road.

? Mr Leach suggested that the Board should fund a footpath from the bottom of No.1 Road to the town boundary, noting that it was his understanding that this was the only urban road in the town that did not have a footpath to the town boundary.

? He expected that the footpath would only need to be about 100-150 metres long.

? Mr Leech noted that the lack of footpath was a massive safety hazard. A lot of Recognised Seasonal Workers were housed on No.1 Road and walked up and down the road. Visibility of them wasn’t good, especially in the dark. In his opinion it was a accident waiting to happen.

? Mr Leach stressed that this should be a high priority for the Board.

7.5 Jess Beech - Paengaroa School Carpark

Ms Beech was in attendance, on behalf of the Paengaroa School, to discuss the refurbishment of the Paengaroa School Carpark.

? Ms Beech shared that the Paengaroa School carpark was not fit for purpose and had become a safety concern.

? There was no safe area to pick up and drop off children, as the carpark was small and close to the road, resulting in several near misses.

? The school conducted a two-week trial of a pick-up and drop-off zone, which proved successful.

? Ms Beech noted that, as the carpark was on Council land, the school required Council permission for any changes.

? She sought support from Council Transportation staff to safely redesign the carpark.

? She requested funding of an estimated $6,000–$10,000 to cover refurbishment, which was expected to involve only paint markings, signage, and a small barrier along a 10-metre stretch.

? Council staff had conducted a site visit and advised that the refurbishment funding would need to come from the Community Board.

7.5 Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor John Scrimgeour - Bay of Plenty Regional Council Annual Plan

Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor John Scrimgeour was in attendance to present and promote the Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Annual Plan 2026/27.

? He wanted to highlight that the Regional Council’s Annual Plan was upcoming, with the draft proposal expected to be approved towards the end of the month, and encouraged Members to review it and make submissions.

7.6 Chris Pointon - Severe Weather Event Impacts on Welcome Bay Road

Mr Pointon was in attendance to discuss the impacts the recent severe weather events had had on his property and neighbouring properties on Welcome Bay Road.

? Mr Pointon lived on a single-lane private driveway shared by 13 houses.

? During the recent severe weather event, runoff from surrounding hills overwhelmed the drainage system. Mud, silt, and debris were carried down the valley to the point where two drains (which effectively became streams) meet at a culvert under Mr Pointon’s access road. From there, a single drain ran approximately 100 metres before reaching the Council’s culvert under Welcome Bay Road.

? The culvert under Welcome Bay Road was overwhelmed. A contractor living on the private road advised that it was at least partially blocked and likely undersized for the volume of rainfall experienced.

? Floodwaters backed up along the shared driveway, overtopped sections including where the private culvert ran beneath it, and inundated the lower 100 metres of the driveway and the area near Welcome Bay Road.

? A local contractor worked for two days to unblock the two culverts and remove mud and silt from the drain, depositing the cleared material along the grass verges of the driveway. He also repaired/redesigned the culvert under the private road to restore safe access for residents and allow geotechnical engineers and power companies to access the site and reinstate services.

? There was concern that because the driveway was shared and serviced multiple households, the situation may “fall between the cracks” in terms of responsibility and available assistance.

? Mr Pointon encouraged Council to inspect the culvert under Welcome Bay Road to assess whether it had sufficient capacity to cope with future severe weather events.

? Mr Pointon noted that himself and neighbouring residents were intending to apply to the Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund but required clarification on:

a. Where silt and debris could be legally disposed of.

b. Whether Council had an approved disposal site for flood-related material.

c. The likely transport distance that would be required, so they could obtain an accurate quote to support their application.

? Residents were also seeking clarity on responsibility for:

a. Funding repairs to the private culvert, given the urgent work required to ensure resident safety.

Cleaning up and removing the mud, silt, and debris cleared from the culvert and drain.
Managing debris that originated from upstream properties but was now deposited on the shared driveway owner’s land.

? Residents were seeking advice on who could provide help in these circumstances, noting:

a. Insurance did not appear to apply.

b. The Natural Hazards Commission criteria did not apply because the damage was approximately 600 metres from Mr Pointon’s house (the assistance threshold was 60 metres).

7.7 Andy Wichers - Heritage Plaza Project

Mr Wichers was in attendance to discuss Stage 2 of the Heritage Plaza Project.

? Mr Wichers explained that he had committed to being involved in the engagement around the artistic works for stage 2 of the Heritage Plaza project, but as he was no longer a Board member, he wished to hand these responsibilities back to the Board and staff.

? At the end of the 2022-25 triennium he had tried to arrange a meeting between Council’s Project Engineer Transportation, Waitaha, and Tapuika, but scheduling conflicts prevented it.

? He had not yet received the design for the artistic works from Waitaha and Tapuika.

? It had been recommended that the artistic works represented Maunga and Awa rather than people.

? He remained happy to be involved in carrying out the physical works of the art when the design was complete.

8 Minutes for Confirmation - Te whakatau i ngā meneti

8.1 Minutes of the Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting held on 5 November 2025

Resolution TECB26-1.2

Moved: Member K Summerhays

Seconded: Member M Williams

1. That the Minutes of the Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting held on 5 November 2025 as circulated with the agenda be confirmed as a true and correct record.

2. That the Chairperson’s electronic signature be inserted into the confirmed minutes.

Carried

9 Reports - Ngā pūrongo

9.1 Te Puke - Eastern Community Board - Chairpersons Report - February 2026

The Board considered a report dated 12 February 2026 from the Chairperson, who congratulated Member Karen Summerhays for her achievements in the Community Development Space and provided an overview the key points of her report. Further discussion was had on the items listed below.

Resolution TECB26-1.3

Moved: Member K Summerhays

Seconded: Member M Williams

1. That the Chairperson’s report dated 12 February 2026 titled ‘Te Puke – Eastern Community Board – February 2026’ be received.

Carried

Resolution TECB26-1.4

Moved: Deputy S Benning

Seconded: Member M Williams

That the Te Puke - Eastern Community Board requests a workshop with Transportation staff to discuss the safety issues that are being caused by the vegetation on Jellicoe Street.

Carried

9.1.1 Installation of Shade Cover

The Board queried how to progress the installation of a shade cover at Ben Keys Playground.

Staff advised that, as requested at the end of the 2022–25 triennium, cost estimates would be presented at a future workshop, with a formal decision to be made subject to the Board’s direction.

Board members suggested seeking community input on preferred locations for shade covers, bus shelters, and similar projects, enabling the Board to prioritise sites rather than progressing projects on an ad hoc basis.

Staff advised that this approach could be incorporated into the Community Board’s Action Plan, and the Board noted that the intent would be included.

9.1.2 Welcome Bay Road

Board members strongly advocated for Council to address damage to residents’ properties and surrounding areas on Welcome Bay Road resulting from the severe weather events of 21 and 22 January. They noted the need for immediate action and the urgent appointment of navigators.

Staff advised that Council’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) remained in the recovery phase, with staff working tirelessly to support vulnerable residents.

It was noted that unless service requests were logged the recovery team would be unaware of outstanding issues; prioritisation was based on highest risk and urgency.

Staff would enquire whether the EOC had planned to employ navigators to support vulnerable residents.

9.1.3 Removal of Vegetation of Jellicoe Street

The Board requested that safety issues caused by vegetation on Jellicoe Street be discussed at a future workshop, noting that the project scope and associated costs would need to be determined before progressing.

9.2 Te Puke - Eastern Community Board - Councillors Report - February 2026

The Board considered a report dated 12 February 2026 from Councillor Dally, who provided an overview of his report and verbal updates on the items below.

Resolution TECB26-1.5

Moved: Member K Summerhays

Seconded: Cr L Rae

That Councillor Dally’s report dated 12 February 2026 titled “Te Puke – Eastern Community Board – Councillor’s Report – February 2026” be received.

Carried

9.2.1 Annual Plan 2026/27

Council had been discussing the Annual Plan and was close to confirming its direction.

Members were informed that Council staff would attend the Board’s upcoming workshop to discuss the Annual Plan prior to community engagement commencing on 20 March 2026.

Pre-engagement for the Long-Term Plan was also commence alongside the Annual Plan process.

9.2.2 Draft Te Puke Spatial Plan

The Draft Te Puke Spatial Plan would be going out for community engagement from 26 February – 1 April.

Staff would forward the engagement questions on to the Board prior to the start of this engagement.

9.2.3 City and Regional Deals

Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Tauranga City Council had been shortlisted by Central Government for a City and Regional Deal. There were no further updates available at the time of the hui.

9.2.4 Local Waters Done Well

Local Waters Done Well was progressing positively, working through the joint working group with Tauranga City Council and Tangata Whenua and was beginning to make critical decisions regarding the structure moving forward.

9.2.5 Recruitment of Chief Executive Officer

A CEO Recruitment Committee had been established, made up of Councillors who were progressing the recruitment process.

9.2.6 January Storm - Civil Defence Emergency Status

A ‘Pathways to Recovery’ hui was being held on Monday 16 February 2026 at Summerhill.

The hui would bring together key agencies involved in the response and recovery, including Council recovery leads, welfare and psychosocial support services, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, roading and infrastructure teams, NZ Police, and other partner agencies.

9.3 Te Puke - Eastern Community Board - Grant Applications - February 2026

The Board considered a report date 12 February 2026 from the Governance Advisor. The report was taken as read, and each application considered individually.

Chairperson D Snell declared a conflict of interest in the Te Puke Citizens RSA Te Puke ANZAC Committee Grant Application and withdrew from the meeting, Deputy Chairperson S Benning assumed the role of Chair for the discussion and decision on this agenda item.

The Te Puke Pony Club application which requested funds for fortnightly mowing of the club grounds was not approved as it did not align with the Boards strategic direction.

Resolution TECB26-1.6

Moved: Cr L Rae

Seconded: Member M Singh Mann

1. That the Governance Advisor’s report dated 12 February 2026 titled ‘Te Puke – Eastern Community Board – Grant Applications – February 2026’ be received.

Carried

Resolution TECB26-1.7

Moved: Member K Summerhays

Seconded: Member M Williams

2. That the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board does not approve the grant application from the Te Puke Pony Club for the fortnightly mowing of the club grounds.

Carried

Resolution TECB26-1.8

Moved: Cr L Rae

Seconded: Member M Williams

3. That the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board approves the grant application from the Te Puke Pony Club for $534.10 plus GST, if any, to cover the costs of upgrading the locks on the Club’s sheds and gates to ensure the security of the club. This grant will be funded from the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board Grants Account, subject to all accountabilities being met.

Carried

Resolution TECB26-1.9

Moved: Member M Williams

Seconded: Cr L Rae

4. That the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board approves the grant application from the Te Puke Citizens RSA Te Puke ANZAC Committee for $1,500, to contribute to the costs of catering and other operating expenses for ANZAC Day. This grant will be funded from the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board Grants Account, subject to all accountabilities being met.

Carried

9.4 Te Puke - Eastern Community Board - Projects and Operations Report - February 2026

The Board considered a report from the Governance Advisor dated 12 February 2026. Members noted that, although a funding contribution had been provided to the Waiari Restoration Project, the project remained ongoing. The below topics were discussed further.

Resolution TECB26-1.10

Moved: Deputy S Benning

Seconded: Member K Summerhays

1. That the Governance Advisor‘s report dated 12 February titled ‘Te Puke – Eastern Community Board – Projects and Operations Report –February 2026’ be received.

Carried

Resolution TECB26-1.11

Moved: Cr L Rae

Seconded: Member K Summerhays

2. That the Te Puke–Eastern Community Board recommends to staff the installation of two metal ashtrays on Jellicoe Street - one located outside the Cava Bar and one located outside the Stadium Bar.

Carried

9.4.1 Free Wi-Fi at Jubilee Park

As stated in the original resolution, the Board would need to make a submission to the Long-Term Plan 2027/37 requesting that Council take over the on-going operational costs of the free Wi-Fi at Jubilee Park.

Staff would look into keeping record of matters the Board had committed to including in future Long-Term Plan (LTP) submissions.

9.4.2 Heritage Plaza

Members raised concerns about the large number of cigarette butts being left on the ground in and around the Heritage Plaza.

It was noted that the issue had been raised with staff, who were investigating the feasibility of installing ashtrays in the area.

9.4.3 History Boards

The Board requested that staff get in contact with the company that had been asked to produce the Crete Tree Memorial and Historic Stock Road history boards and request a project update.

Members noted that the original image for the Historic Stock Road history board had been updated to a different image and that this would need to be communicated to the designer.

9.4.4 Freedom Camping

Concerns were raised regarding the two fines that had been issued to freedom campers at Otamarakau for parking in the wrong place.

Staff advised that it was a service level requirement for Council to monitor the freedom camping areas in summer.

Staff would provide the Board with reporting on the freedom camping seasonal monitoring.

9.5 Te Puke - Eastern Community Board - Financial Report - December 2025

The Board considered a report from the Financial Partner dated 12 February 2026. The report was taken as read.

Resolution TECB26-1.12

Moved: Member K Summerhays

Seconded: Member M Williams

1. The Finance Partner’s report dated 12 February 2026 titled ‘Te Puke – Eastern Community Board – Financial Report December 2025’, be received.

2. That the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board approve for the remaining committed funds from the below resolutions to be released back into the Roading Account:

Meeting Date

Project

Account

Spent

Remaining Committed

1 Aug 2024

(TPC24-4.9)

Fairhaven Park Footpath. Approve a budget of $50,000 from the Roading Account for the design and installation of a footpath through Fairhaven Park.

Roading

(28,634)

(21,366)

20 Feb 2025

(TPC25-1.1)

Bramble Bridge Safety Audit. Approve to spend up to $10,000 from the Roading Account on the Road Safety Audit of Bramble bridge to determine what actions need to be taken to improve pedestrian safety on the bridge.

Roading

(9,295)

(705)

Carried

10 Information for Receipt - Kōrero te whiwhia

Councillor D Dinsdale closed the hui with a karakia.

The Meeting closed at 9.23pm.

Confirmed as a true and correct record at the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board meeting held on 9 April 2026.

...................................................

Chairperson D Snell

CHAIRPERSON

Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting Agenda

9 April 2026

9.2 Te Puke - Eastern Community Board - Councillors Report - April 2026

File Number: A7201768

Author: Laura Rae, Councillor

Authoriser: Alison Curtis, General Manager Regulatory Services

Executive Summary

1. The purpose of this report is for Councillor Rae to provide the Board with updates on the items listed below.

Recommendation

1. That Councillor Rae’s report dated 9 April 2026 titled ‘Te Puke – Eastern Community Board – Councillor’s Report – April 2026’ be received.

Te Puke Spatial Plan and Long-Term Plan

Consultation for our Draft Te Puke Spatial Plan and Pre-Engagement for the Long-Term Plan 2027/37 (LTP) is now closed.

Firstly, I’d like to thank all our elected members and staff for their attendance and engagement with our communities during this process and especially on the day of the quest event in Jubilee Park on Saturday 21 March 2026. It was a highly successful day and I’m hearing we had possibly the largest turnout in the district where these events were held, well done Te Puke. I very much look forward to reading all the feedback that will now be collated for Councillors to read before we make any final decisions.

Pre-Engagement for Councils LTP process will help to inform Councillors of what is important to Te Puke and its surrounding areas. There is no doubt we will all hear more about this going forward and have further opportunities to feed into this plan. Including writing formal submissions and speaking to those submission.

Annual Plan 2026/27

Consultation on Council’s Draft Annual Plan 2026/27 is now open with drop-in sessions having occurred across the district. Please encourage residents to give their own individual feedback to this.

This includes questions around:

? Investing more into local roads

? Environmental maintenance such as mowing.

? Proposals to increase volumetric water chargers.

? How we pay for Community Boards, including a proposal to decrease Community Boards discretionary Community Board Roading Allocation.

? Whether or not to install a fluoride free tap in Waihi Beach at the treatment plant after the Government mandated adding fluoride

? Rates affordability and what might be some of the things that communities would be willing to give up if the answer is that rates aren’t affordable with a forecasted raise of 8% on average, varying in types of properties and values of course.

Feedback on the Annual Plan closes at 5pm 20April 2026.

Draft Fees and Charges and Policy Review

Draft Fees and charges are being reviewed alongside the Annual Plan 2026/27, such as the increases in the price for dog registration as well as financial contributions.

The Policy review for setting land rentals and club buildings on Council land charges which is also proposed to increase slightly.

Both are closing at the same time as our Annual Plan process with hearings available thereafter. Please do register to speak if you wish to and actively inform others to feed in where appropriate.

Open funding rounds

Council’s Facilities in the Community Fund is now open until 20 April 2026. This fund is collected from financial contributions across our district. Follow the link here for an application. Please advise and direct any groups who may be interested or need a helping hand to apply. There is $116,812 available for sports clubs, schools and volunteer organizations that are either on private, or council owned land, however must be available to the community to use.

Local water done well

All decisions about whether to establish a joint water services entity with Tauranga City Council, or not, will have been made by the date of this meeting, however still pending in writing this report.

Hoping for a favorable outcome for communities in the East with decision dates being 24 March 2026 and 2April 2026 in conjunction with Tauranga City Council as per our Water Services Delivery Plan presented to the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). If successful, the new organization wouldn’t start delivering water services until 1 July 2027.

Do take time to watch our YouTube channel if you would like to understand how and what decision was reached.

Property revaluations

Property revaluations are carried out every three years across New Zealand. If you are a property owner, you will have received these in the same way you get your rates bill either via email or postal mail.

Most properties values are down on previous valuations which doesn’t always translate to a drop in rates. Further information is available on our website here or even on our social media channels via a helpful video put together by the Audit, Risk and Finance Chairperson Cr Coxhead.

Property owners who wish to object can do so until 24 April 2026.

Easter Kerbside Rubbish Collection

Only good Friday (3 April 2026) kerbside rubbish collection will be affected over Easter and Anzac. Collections will be made one day later, on Saturday the 4 April 2026instead.

Mayoral Relief Fund

The Mayoral Relief Fund has been helping with clean-up costs and necessities so far for 36 households and businesses affected in January’s weather event with payments ranging from $300 - $16,000. $200,000 from Central Government and $5,300 from donations by local businesses and individuals. This fund will remain open for donations until 20 April 2026; all the details are available on our website.

New Liquefaction Maps for Te Puke

New Liquefaction Maps for Te Puke have been updated showing how properties could be affected during a large earthquake. Letters have been sent to landowners affected and new information has been included on Council’s Natural Hazards webpage.

Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting Agenda

9 April 2026

9.3 Te Puke - Eastern Community Board - ANZAC Day Commemoration 2026

File Number: A7161879

Author: Ella Logan, Governance Advisor

Authoriser: Robyn Garrett, Governance Manager

Executive Summary

1. The Te Puke – Eastern Community Board is required to make a decision regarding attendance and presentation of a wreath at the ANZAC Service in Te Puke on ANZAC Day, Thursday 25 April 2026.

Recommendation

1. That the Governance Advisor’s report dated 9 April 2026, titled ‘Te Puke – Eastern Community Board – ANZAC Day Commemoration 2026’, 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 Te Puke – Eastern Community Board approves up to $200 to provide a wreath for the Te Puke ANZAC Day Service, to be funded from the Te Puke Community Board Contingency Account.

That the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board approves the use of a reusable wreath for the Te Puke ANZAC Day Service.

That the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board does not provide a wreath for the Te Puke ANZAC Day Service.

4. That ……………………… represents the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board at the ANZAC Day Service in Te Puke 25 April 2026.

Background

2. The Te Puke Community Board has traditionally participated in the Te Puke ANZAC Day Service each year, representing its communities at local commemorations. It is anticipated that the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board will continue this practice in 2026. The Board is required to nominate a member to represent the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board and lay a wreath at the Te Puke ANZAC Day Service

3. In 2024, the previous Te Puke Community Board purchased a reusable wreath as a cost‑saving measure as shown in Attachment 1, consistent with the approach taken by other Community Boards in the district. The wreath was subsequently misplaced, and in 2025 the Board resolved to purchase a new wreath annually instead.

4. Community Boards may either purchase a new wreath from a local florist, funded through the Board’s contingency account, or use one of Council’s reusable wreaths at no cost.

Significance and Engagement

The Local Government Act 2002 requires a formal assessment of the significance of matters and decision in this report against Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. In making this formal assessment there is no intention to assess the importance of this item to individuals, groups, or agencies within the community and it is acknowledged that all reports have a high degree of importance to those affected by Council decisions.

5. The Policy requires Council and its communities to identify the degree of significance attached to particular issues, proposals, assets, decisions, and activities.

6. In terms of the Significance and Engagement Policy this decision is considered to be of low significance because it does not meet the threshold of the significance policy.

Interested/Affected Parties

Completed/Planned
Engagement/Consultation/Communication

Te Puke Returned Services Association

Governance Services will inform the Te Puke Returned Services Association of the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board representative attending the Te Puke ANZAC Day Service on 25 April 2026.

General Public

No consultation is planned.

The report recommendations and the Community Board’s decision will be publicly available as part of the agenda and minutes.

Issues and Options Assessment

Option A

Fund a New ANZAC Wreath

Assessment of advantages and disadvantages including impact on each of the four well-beings

? Economic

? Social

? Cultural

? Environmental

The cost of a wreath is minor and provides economic, social, and cultural support to the community for this event. The wreath would be prepared by a local florist. There is no significant environmental impact.

Option B

Use a Reusable Council Wreath

Assessment of advantages and disadvantages including impact on each of the four well-beings

? Economic

? Social

? Cultural

? Environmental

There is no cost to the Community Board, and reuse supports environmental well‑being by reducing waste. Social and cultural benefits are maintained through continued participation in ANZAC commemorations. There is no economic contribution to local businesses.

Option C

Do not provide a Wreath

Assessment of advantages and disadvantages including impact on each of the four well-beings

? Economic

? Social

? Cultural

Environmental

This option has no financial cost and no environmental impact. However, it does not contribute to social or cultural well‑beings and may be viewed negatively by the community, as it represents a departure from longstanding ANZAC Day participation.

Statutory Compliance

The Te Puke – Eastern Community Board has delegated authority to allocate funding from its Contingency Account. The decision to purchase a wreath, use a reusable wreath, or not provide a wreath sits within the Board’s approved delegations and requires no additional statutory approvals.

Funding/Budget Implications

Budget Funding Information	Relevant Detail
Up to $200.00 allocated from the Board’s Contingency Account.	The funding of up to $200.00 for a wreath to be laid by Te Puke - Eastern Community Representatives on ANZAC Day 2026.

Attachments

1. Reusable ANZAC Wreath ⇩

Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting Agenda

9 April 2026

9.5 Transportation Project Update - Heritage Plaza Stage 2

File Number: A7186232

Author: Sam Dunstan, Project Engineer Transportation

Authoriser: Brad Singh, General Manager Infrastructure Group

Executive Summary

The purpose of this report is to provide the Te Puke - Eastern Community Board with an update on the Heritage Plaza Improvement Project and propose a pathway forward for Stage 2.

Recommendation

1. That the Project Engineer Transportation report dated 9 April 2026 titled ‘Heritage Plaza Stage 2’ 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 Te Puke - Eastern Community Board resolves to commit a further $20,000 to progress supply and Installation of the lighting components, whilst continuing to develop options for the artwork component.

Background

1. As part of the SH2 revocation project in 2015, $100,000 was set aside for refurbishment of the area outside Te Puke Jewellers and Life Pharmacy at 92-102 Jellicoe Street.

2. The Te Puke Community Board (the Board) identified this refurbishment as a key project to progress. In 2024 landscape architect Nicole Vague of NVLA was engaged to develop three concept designs for the space. These were presented to the Board in August 2024, with one option selected to move forward into the developed design phase.

3. In addition to the $100,000 set aside from the SH2 revocation project, the Board approved expenditure of a maximum of $100,000 from the Community Board Roading Account, increasing the total project budget to $200,000.

4. A developed design was presented to the Board in September 2024, and the Board resolved to progress the project to the detailed design phase.

5. The detailed design was presented to the Board in April 2025, and the Board resolved to proceed to construction.

6. Construction was completed on 01 August 2025.

7. The Board considers the works completed in August 2025 to be Stage 1 of the project.

8. Stage 2 consists of further enhancements being artwork co-designed with Tangata Whenua, and decorative lighting. These were not included in Stage 1 of the project because the artwork has not yet been designed and because the decorative lighting was intended to complement the artwork.

9. Stage 2 is proposed to be delivered using funds not expended during Stage 1 of the project.

10. The Te Puke – Eastern Community Board has now expressed interest in progressing Stage 2 of the project.

Heritage Plaza Stage 1

11. The design aims to soften the Heritage Plaza space via the addition of planting, seating, large-scale feature rocks, and a circular decking area. The natural desire line of pedestrian movement is maintained with sufficient space for pedestrian accessibility. The existing footpath cross-fall was retained to reduce the total project cost however the design accommodates this.

12. Stage 1 included the following improvements:

(a) Removal of concrete pavers to storage and removal of the existing street furniture to a reserve in Te Puke.

(b) New gardens Including feature rocks and plants.

Figure 1: Completed Heritage Plaza Stage 1

Heritage Plaza Stage 2

13. Stage 2 consists of further enhancements being artwork co-designed with Tangata Whenua, and decorative lighting.

Artwork:

14. The artwork concept developed by NVLA specifies three sculptural light poles made from corten steel, featuring cut-out designs. Early discussions proposed that one pole represent Waitaha Iwi, another represent Tapuika Iwi, and the third represent Te Puke more broadly.

15. An email dated 6 March 2025 from Ray Wihapi, General Manager Waitaha Iwi – Te Kapu o Waitaha, to former Councillor Andy Wichers, included a letter of support for the Heritage Plaza upgrade (refer Attachment 1). This letter was issued on behalf of both Waitaha Iwi and Tapuika Iwi and confirms their support for the development of artworks and their commitment to providing appropriate kōrero and artistic input to ensure the Heritage Plaza authentically reflects the richness of the rohe.

16. Staff from Council's Kaupapa Māori team are engaging with Waitaha to progress the design of the artwork.

17. Former Councillor Andy Wichers has offered to fabricate the Corten steel poles at a minimal cost to the Board.

Lighting:

18. The lighting design developed by NVLA includes LED landscape up lights within the garden and decking lights that will glow under the deck through the Corten steel cut out frame of the deck.

19. The cost estimate for the lighting is $50,500.00.

Figure 2: Artwork and lighting plan

Figure 3: Artwork and lighting inspiration images

Financial Summary

20. The original cost estimate for the physical works component of the project was $152,000.00. Due to unforeseen site conditions, and the Te Puke Community Board’s decision to replace some of the originally specified nīkau with larger specimens, the construction cost for Stage 1 increased by $9,000.

Item	Amount	Note
Total project budget	$200,000.00	$100,000 (SH2 Revocation Project) $100,000 (Community Board Roading Account)
Design cost	-$8,200.00	Concept, developed, and detailed design
Construction cost	-$159,800.74
Garden maintenance cost	-$1,200.00	Further left to claim (6 months of 12 completed)
Remaining budget	$30,799.26

Table 1: Cost to date

21. The remaining budget of $30,799.26 is not sufficient to deliver the originally proposed Stage 2 lighting, which is estimated to cost $50,500, and does not include the potential cost of design, fabrication of the artwork.

Cost item	Estimated cost	Note
Lighting (Supply and installation)	$50,500.00	Supply and install as per the design. Includes power connection application fee, Temporary Traffic Management and 15% contingency.
Artwork Design and Manufacturing	Rough Order Cost of $5,000 -$7,000 per pole (total of $15,000 to $21,000 for three poles).	Costs will depend on final design. This rough order cost is based on information provided by a Corten steel supplier and is subject to the final design.

Table 2: High-level cost estimate (Stage 2)

Issues and Options Assessment

22. If the Board wishes to proceed, it is recommended that a resolution be passed to commit a further $20,000 toward the installation of the lighting, as per the plan in Figure 2, enabling the lighting works to be completed.

23. In conjunction with this, staff will continue to engage with Waitaha and Tapuika regarding the artwork contribution, to develop a plan for design and implementation.

Option A – Lighting Installation Only (recommended) That the Te Puke - Eastern Community Board resolves to commit a further $20,000 to progress supply and Installation of the lighting components, whilst continuing to develop options for the artwork component.
Assessment of advantages and disadvantages including impact on each of the four well-beings ? Economic ? Social ? Cultural ? Environmental	Advantages: ? Lighting will be completed and compliment existing features. ? Additional cost resulting from USA/Iran conflict will be minimal. Disadvantages: ? Lighting and artwork will not be coordinated.
Costs (including present and future costs, direct, indirect and contingent costs).	$50,500
Option B – Combined Delivery That the Te Puke - Eastern Community Board resolves to defer installation of the lighting until the artwork has been designed manufactured and all remaining and both can be installed at the same time.
Assessment of advantages and disadvantages including impact on each of the four well-beings ? Economic ? Social ? Cultural ? Environmental	Advantages: ? Lighting and artwork installation will be coordinated. Disadvantages: ? Additional budget needed to cover cost escalation resulting from USA/Iran conflict. ? Existing features will not be complimented by lighting.
Costs (including present and future costs, direct, indirect and contingent costs).	$0
Option C – Project Closure Cease the project and release the remaining allocated funds.
Assessment of advantages and disadvantages including impact on each of the four well-beings ? Economic ? Social ? Cultural ? Environmental	Advantages: ? No further costs Disadvantages: ? The full Intent and desire for the space to represent Te Puke will not be completed.
Costs (including present and future costs, direct, indirect and contingent costs).	$0

Funding/Budget Implications

Budget Funding Information	Relevant Detail
Te Puke – Eastern Community Board Roading Account	As per the Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Financial Report February 2026 Community Board Roading Account summary. The Board has a total of $586,830 uncommitted funds within the Community Board Roading Account.

Attachments

1. Te Puke Heritage Plaza - Attachment 1 - Letter of Support for Heritage Plaza_ Ray Wihapi ⇩

Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting Agenda

9 April 2026

Service Requests

This section is to provide an overview of Service Requests for the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board area from 17^th February 2026 – 20^th March 2026.

There has been one of each of the following subtypes of Service Requests raised and completed.

? Collections - General enquiry/call back

? Consents Administration – LIMS

? Customer Service Planning - Pre Application

? Kaupapa Maori - Maori land enquiries

? Local Road - Local Road Marking - Request for re-marking

? Local Road - Sealed Road Defect - BLEEDING TAR

? Reserves & Facilities - Vandalism/Broken Glass on Reserves/Playgrounds

? Urban Stormwater General/Request for Information

? Wastewater - Pumpstation Issue or Blockage

? Water Revenue - General enquiry/call back

? Compliance & Enforcement - Complaints about Freedom Camping affecting Reserves or Roads

? Environmental Planning - General enquiry

? Reserves & Facilities – Cemeteries

? Reserves & Facilities - Dumping Organic Material/Dirt

? Reserves & Facilities - Public Toilets (Hygiene/Paper ONLY)

? Solid Waste - Recycling Centre's/Mobile Recycling/Website Enquiries

? Solid Waste - Urban Litter Bins

? Wastewater - Sewage overflow/spill on ground/dump station

? Water Revenue - Water leak remission application

There has been one of each of the following subtypes of Service Requests raised, which are under investigation.

? Animal Services - Microchipping dog(s) request

? Reserves & Facilities - Graffiti in Reserve ONLY

? Reserves & Facilities - Park and Playground Equipment

? Reserves & Facilities - Reserves Request for Information

? Stormwater - Urban Storm Water Reinstatement after works

The table below shows Services Request’s that are higher in numbers and have a mix of statuses.

Service Request Subtype	Notes	Completed	Under Investigation/Scheduled for Completion
Animal Services	Dog Aggressive/Rushed towards and Dog attacked (and made contact)	7	0
Animal Services - Dog Barking (address of dog required)	Reports from across the community board area – multiple from Te Puke	6	4
Animal Services – Dog Roaming	Reports from across the community board area	14	0
Animal Services - FOUND/PICK-UP	Reports from across the community board area	12	0
Animal Services – Lost Dog	Reports from across the community board area	4	0
Building Act Compliance – General	Enquiries from across the community board area	11	5
Building Act Compliance - Pool Barrier Inspection Outcomes	Outcome reports for across the community board area – multiple from Te Puke	39	0
Building Admin – General	Enquiries from across the community board area	32	27
Cemeteries	Enquiries from across the community board area	11	4
Compliance & Enforcement - Abandoned Vehicle	Reports from across the area – multiple from Te Puke	4	1
Compliance & Enforcement - General	Enquiries from across the community board area	26	0
Noise Complaint (After Hours - Watchdog)	Reports from across the community board area	25	0
Noise Complaint (Daytime)	Reports from across the community board area	5	0
Customer Service Planning – General	Enquiries from across the community board area	38	36
Emergency Operations Centre	Enquiries and reports from across the community board area	7	4
Kaupapa Maori – General	Enquiries from across the community board	3	0
Kerbside Collective - Damaged Bin	Replace/Repair requests from across the community board area	12	13
Kerbside General Enquiry	Enquiries from across the community board area	8	1
Kerbside Collective - Missed Collection – Investigation	Reports from across the community board area	14	0
Local Roads - ALL Cesspit/Grill/Gutters & Drains (sealed road)	Reports from across the community board area	12	11
Local Roads - Bridges/Structures	Replacement/Maintenance Asset Requests across the community board area	3	0
Detritus (Loose Chips/Sand/Dead Animal (Not Dogs)) - NO Illegal Dumping	Reports from across the community board area	2	0
Local Roads – General	Enquiries from across the community board area	71	18
Local Road – Tree Requests	Request for trimming or removal of fallen tree/branch	21	9
Local Road Signs (damaged/graffiti)	Replacement/Maintenance Asset Requests from across the community board area	4	3
Road Surface Defects - SEALED LOCAL RD	Reports from across the community board area	12	14
Road Surface Defects - UNSEALED LOCAL RD	Reports from across the community board area	23	18
Local Road - Slip/Flood/Crash/Spill	Reports from across the community board area	12	4
Local Roads – Vegetation (not trees)/mowing	Reports and enquiries from across the community board area	25	19
Privacy & LGOIMA - LGOIMA Request	Requests from across the community board area	5	2
Reserves and Facilities - Litter/Litter Bins or dumping in Reserve	Reports from across the community board area	8	6
Mowing and Vegetation/Gardens (NOT Trees)	Reports from across the community board area – multiple from Paengaroa	7	5
Reserves & Facilities – General	Enquiries from across the community board area	21	6
Solid Waste - Illegal Dumping/Carcasses (Not Dogs)/Burnt Vehicles	Reports from across the community board area – multiple from the Te Puke area	12	11
Stormwater - Flooding open drain/culvert-raining only	Reports from across the community board area	3	1
Water – All Water Leaks	Reports from across the community board area	19	8
Meter/Toby issue (not leak)	Reports from across the community board area	3	2
Water – No Water	Reports from across the community board area – multiple from Te Puke	8	4
Water – General	Reports and enquiries from across the community board area	8	2
Water - Water pressure too high or low	Reports from across the community board area	8	2
Water Revenue - Water connection application	Reports from across the community board area	4	2

Matters arising from previous community board meetings (not minute action sheets)

This section relates to any matters arising from prior Community Board meetings where a Minute Action Sheet was not raised.

Nil

completed/outstanding minute action sheets (not infrastrucutre related)

Nil

Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Meeting Agenda

9 April 2026

9.7 Te Puke - Eastern Community Board - Financial Report - February 2026

File Number: A7195396

Author: Paula Clode, Finance Partner

Authoriser: Jonathan Fearn, Chief Financial Officer

Executive Summary

This report provides the Community Board with a two-monthly monitoring of its operational budget. Attached is the financial statement for the period ended 28 February 2026 (Attachment 1).

Total operational costs are under budget by $27,707 for the year-to-date 28 February 2026.

Summary of reserve balances, current year to date transactions and committed spend are as follows;

	Te Puke Community Board Reserve	Te Puke – Eastern Community Board Reserve	Community Roading	Town Centre Development
Opening Balance	124,601	-	884,518	169,937
Current year	(8,695)	-	12,611	-
Committed spend	(32,500)	-	(310,299)	-
Balance after Committed	83,406	-	586,830	169,937

Recommendation

1. The Finance Partner’s report dated 9 April 2026 titled ‘Te Puke – Eastern Community Board – Financial Report February 2026’, be received.

2. That the Te Puke – Eastern Community Board approve for the remaining committed funds from the below resolutions to be released back into the Roading Account:

Meeting Date

Project

Account

Spent

Remaining Committed

26 Sep 2024

(TPC24-5.18)

Bus Shelter Manoeka Road. Approve a budget of $4,650 from the Roading Account for the design and installation of a new bus shelter at 188 Manoeka Road.

Roading

(3,914)

(736)

Financial report breakdown of operational spend

The following two accounts are a detailed breakdown from the Financial Statements 28 February 2026 (Attachment 1).

1. Community board grants

Community Boards consider grant applications from eligible groups within their area throughout the year. Budget for the year is $15,876. The following table outlines the grants that have been paid this year, committed spend and remainder of budget for the year.

Date	Description	Spent YTD
31 Jul 2025 (TPC25-4.11)	Te Puke Memorial Hall, 6x3m decorated red and gold Christmas garlands.	2,446
	2025/26 Total grants paid to date	2,446
Less Committed
12 Feb 2026 (TECB26-1.8)	Te Puke Pony Club, upgrading locks on the Club sheds and gates.	534
12 Feb 2026 (TECB26-1.9)	Te Puke Citizens RSA Te Puke ANZAC Committee, costs of catering and other operating expenses for ANZAC day.	1,500
	Remaining Grants Budget available	11,396

2. Contingency

The following table shows any operational expenditure approved to come from the Contingency budget. Total budget for the year is $23,076. The following table outlines anything that has been paid this year, committed spend and remainder of budget for the year.

Date	Description	Spent YTD
3 Jul 2025	Flowers for Michael Pittar’s family	200
29 May 2025	Blomquist Bakery - catering	125
13 Nov 2025	Badge King – Name badges	47
5 Dec 2025	Badge King – Name badges	31
	2025/26 Total Contingency paid to date	403
Less Committed
31 Jul 2025 (TPC25-4.18)	Purchase of Christmas and Easter main street flags.	4,000
	Remaining Contingency Budget available	18,673

2025/26 Te puke – Eastern Community Board Reserve Analysis

The following tables show projects funded directly from the Community Board Reserve Accounts, including both projects that have been completed and those that are still in progress.

Te Puke Community Board Reserve				$
2025/26 Opening balance				124,601
Less Current Year spend
Contribution to Disc Golf Course. (TPC24-5.16)				(8,695)
Available balance as at 28 February 2026				115,906
Less Committed
Meeting Date	Project	Status	Spent	Remaining Funds
28 July 2022 (TPC22-4.5)	Approve up to $30,000 to be paid from Te Puke Community Board Reserve Account for costs relating to the Te Puke Story Boards Project.	Not Started	-	(30,000)
3 Apr 2025 (TPC25-2.3)	Approves a budget of $2,500 from the Reserves Account to carry out an initial public engagement workshop on a community plan with residents of Te Puke.	Not started	-	(2,500)
2025/26 Closing balance after committed expenditure				83,406

Te Puke – Eastern Town Community Board Reserve	$
2025/26 Opening balance	-
Less Current Year spend
No current year transactions	-
Less Committed
No commitments	-
2025/26 Closing balance after committed expenditure	-

2025/26 te puke Community Board Roading Allocation:

The following table shows a detailed breakdown of the Community Board Roading Account including both completed and in progress projects funded from the Community Board Roading Allocation.

Te Puke Community Board Roading				$
2025/26 Opening balance				884,518
Plus, Interest on roading account balance				23,381
Plus, Roading rate income allocation 2025/26				333,180
Less Current Year spend
Heritage Plaza, costs relating to the design and installation. (TPC24-4.7) Plus, Transport contribution towards Heritage Plaza project, Stage 1.				(117,707) 100,000
Te Puke Quarry Road footpath, construction of a footpath along Te Puke Quarry Road between the Eastpack entranceway and the Raparapahoe Stream Bridge. (TPC25-3.1)				(185,583)
Bus Shelter Manoeka Road (TPC24-5.18)				(3,914)
Waiari Bridge Area Restoration (TPC25-3.2)				(136,746)
Available balance as at 28 February 2026				897,129
Less Committed
Meeting Date	Project	Status	Spent	Remaining Committed
1 Aug 2024 (TPC24-4.7)	Approve a budget of up to $100,000 out of the Roading Account for the costs relating to the design and installation of the Heritage Plaza, contingent on the concept design being approved by the Board.	Stage 1 complete	(68,001)	(31,999)
1 Aug 2024 (TPC24-4.8)	Landscape Road Footpath. Approve a budget of $100,000 from the Roading Account for the design and installation of a footpath along Landscape Road along the road reserve in McLoughlin Park.	In Progress	(7,108)	(92,893)
26 Sep 2024 (TPC24-5.18)	Bus Shelter Manoeka Road. Approve a budget of $4,650 from the Roading Account for the design and installation of a new bus shelter at 188 Manoeka Road.	Completed	(3,914)	(736)
29 May 2025 (TPC25-3.1)	Te Puke Quarry Road Footpath. Approve a budget of up to $207,000 from the Roading Account to fund the construction of a footpath along Te Puke Quarry Road between the Eastpack entranceway and the Raparapahoe Streeam Bridge.	In Progress	(185,583)	(21,417)
29 May 2025 (TPC25-3.2)	Waiāri Bridge Area Restoration. Approve budget of up to $300,000 from the Community Board Roading Account as a funding contribution to the Waiāri Bridge Area Restoration Project, on the condition that the construction of a bridge of the Waiāri is a priority within the project.	In Progress	(136,746)	(163,254)
2025/26 Closing balance after committed expenditure				586,830

Te puke Town Centre Development:

The Town Centre Development Fund was collected as a district-wide targeted rate and operated on a four-year rotational basis, with funds spent in different town centres each cycle. Community Boards recommended how funds were used in their towns. The Fund has now been discontinued as part of the Long-Term Plan 2024–2034. The remaining balance has been equally distributed among the district’s main town centres, and each Community Board can recommend to Council how their town’s portion should be spent.

Te Puke Town Centre Development Fund	$
2025/26 Opening balance	169,937
Less Current Year spend
No current year transactions	-
Less Committed
No commitments	-
2025/26 Closing balance after committed expenditure	169,937

Attachments

1. Te Puke - Eastern Community Board Financial Statement - February 2026 ⇩

Chairperson	Dale Snell
Deputy Chairperson	Sally Benning
Members	Manvir Singh Mann Karen Summerhays Marara Williams Councillor Grant Dally Councillor Laura Rae
Quorum	4
Frequency	Eight weekly / Workshops as required

HERITAGE PLAZA
Project Description	Staff Comment/Update	Progress Level
Refurbishment of the Heritage Plaza and procurement of local services.	Stage 1 is complete. A further update is included in this agenda.	In progress

BUS SHELTER (HOOKEY DRIVE AND RANDELL PLACE)
Project Description	Staff Comment/Update	Progress Level
The Board are interested in installing a bus shelter on Hookey Drive and Randell Place.	Under the Local Government Act, Council is required to notify (in writing) the directly adjacent neighbours, of its proposal to erect a bus shelter. There is a 14-day period where objections in writing may be received, if not, the Board may make their final decision. Staff have advised that they will manage the letter drop and will keep the incoming Board aware of the outcome.	In Progress

MCLOUGHLIN PARK/LANDSCAPE ROAD FOOTPATH
Project Description	Staff Comment/Update	Progress Level
Installation of a footpath through McLoughlin Park.	This project is currently on hold. Staff are reviewing the project and assessing its alignment with Council Policy.	On hold