May/June 2025 including LWAG Agenda June 19
General Business: PUBLIC FORUM JUNE 19 - TOPIC “INVASIVE CLAM (CORBICULA) UPDATE” Presenters:
WRC’s Danielle Kruger - Biosecurity & Freshwater lead, NIWA’s Deborah Hofstra - Princ. Scientist Freshwater Ecology, MPI’s Duncan Campbell, Snr Advisor - Aquatic Pest Man.,(TBC) & Kid’s Greening Taupō’s Rachel Thompson speaking on their local invasive clam education initiatives
Statutory Processes: RMA national direction Submissions are invited on proposals to update national direction for 1) infrastructure, development and the 2) primary sector and on 3) options to amend freshwater national direction, and test how housing proposals could fit into the new resource management system. MfE NPS Freshwater: The Government is consulting on proposals to amend the: National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPS-FM) Resource Management (National Environmental Standards for Freshwater) Regulations 2020 (NES-F) Submissions due Sunday 27 July https://consult.environment.govt.nz/resource-management/freshwater-national-direction/
Rural Update: See attached minutes of our April TLAW presentation: ‘Lake Taupō Protection from a Rural Perspective’ - Ruby Mulinder
Science Update: July 1st will see the merger of the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences Limited (GNS Science) with the National Institute for Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) - which is also acquiring the MetService as a subsidiary. Together they will form the Earth Science Institute (ESI). More here: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/560964/chairs-board-members-named-for-new-science-mergers
Appendix: LWAG agenda
Download Agenda & scroll down here for LWAG activities/updates & community participation opportunities:
STATUTORY PROCESS UPDATE, COMMUNICATION May/June 2025
TAUPŌ DISTRICT COUNCIL:
DISTRICT PLAN REVIEW 2019 - 2022
Taupō District Plan Changes 44-46 pre-consultation Residential Zones Neighbourhood Centre Zone
Open Space Zones Further consultation pending.
Plan Change 42 (General Rural and Rural Lifestyle Environments) and Plan Change 43 (Taupo Industrial) to the Taupō District Plan became operative on 14 March 2025. The Plan Changes are now live in the ePlan at https://taupo.isoplan.co.nz/eplan/#.
All information relating to the plan changes can be found at https://www.taupodc.govt.nz/districtplanchanges
National Planning Standards Version of the Taupō District Plan - In 2020 the Government introduced the National Planning Standards (the Standards). The Standards are a series of templates which place mandatory requirements for how District and Regional Plans are set up and formatted. The purpose of the National Planning Standards is to make council plans and policy statements easier to prepare, understand, and comply with. They aim to do this by improving the consistency of the format and content. (Yet to be signed off)
National Planning Standards draft information sheet and conversion chart: https://www.taupodc.govt.nz/property-and-rates/district-plan
TDC 'Our Water, Our Future' Taupō District Council consultation
Local Water Done Well aims to: Address how waters infrastructure across New Zealand is funded and delivered in a financially sustainable way Introduce a new regulatory regime for water services delivery, which sets out increased environmental, economic and human health standards and regulations. Local Water Done Well provides options to councils on how they will meet the government’s new requirements. TDC have narrowed down the options for Taupō District to three. More here: https://www.taupodc.govt.nz/council/consultation/our-water-our-future
Option One: Keep water services in-house for now (preferred option) Council continues to deliver water services with some changes to ensure compliance with Local Water Done Well legislation. This is our preferred option because we believe this offers the best value for our ratepayers in the short to medium term. Option Two: Join Waikato Water, a regional water entity Taupō District Council partners with neighbouring councils in the Waikato region to form a multi council-owned and controlled water services organisation. Assets, debt, and responsibility for delivering water services would be transferred to this organisation within five years. Option Three: Establish a single Taupō District Council-controlled organisation. A Taupō District Council-controlled organisation would be established to manage and deliver water services, governed by an independent board. Subs due 29 May 2025
Seven Oaks Kinloch Limited reference: RM240388-389 and RM200118C Application for subdivision consent to subdivide to create 84 residential lots, four reserves and five roads over six Stages where the residential lots will be less than the minimum and average lot sizes for the Kinloch Low Density Environment; and to construct roads and extend water and wastewater infrastructure to service the lots. TLAW submitted against this. Hearings August.
NUKUHAU PRIVE PLAN CHANGE – Became operative in June 2023 (after appeal issues resolved) In line with the recommendations, TDC is looking into the control gates bridge as part of the Annual Plan process. Alongside this, no development within the plan change area can progress until an appropriate solution to dealing with infrastructure including increased wastewater is addressed.Wastewater buffer tanks and pump station proposed for construction 2026 to enable development. Currently in design.
LOCHVIEWS ESTATE LTD SUBDIVISION APPLICATION (STAGE 1) – Lodged
July 2021 for 111 residential lots above Acacia Bay.
WW now proposed to be stored and fed incrementally into system at off peak times i.e. reticulated. Louise Wood is processing consent which is currently on hold awaiting the applicants addressing of further geotechnical concerns raised by peer-reviewed engineering report (TDC). The land is zoned residential so decision on level of notification of development yet to be made. NO UPDATE – Remains on hold.
TURANGI WWTP – Consent Renewal lodged November 2017.
LWAG commented re; options. Processing by WRC put on hold pending steering group progression. Steering group including John Williamson, TDC staff, Tuwharetoa MTB and local iwi, external, project manager contracted facilitating the steering group process.
At this stage there is no available land for a land disposal process system and Council has resolved to stay at the current location but still work towards a land disposal system in the long-term. TDC has drafted an updated consent application, and this is with Turangitukua for comment. We hope to able to supply the updated application to WRC very soon.
continues. UPDATED.
MANGAKINO – TDC is including upgrade of WWTP for N removal in new consent application and the planned upgrade will allow for future growth. Consultation complete and now finalizing conditions, expect WRC to issue consent imminently. Upgrade planned for 2028. NO UPDATE.
ATIAMURI: Wastewater Discharge Consent now granted. Upgrade scheduled by June 2026.
TDC DRINKING WATER UPGRADES:
Kinloch WTP construction has started but not supplying water yet.
Atiamuri and Waihaha water supply UV projects underway.
Omori/Hatepe/Motuoapa/Centennial to follow.
Acacia Bay now connected to the Taupo scheme.
NO UPDATE.
STORM WATER DISCHRAGE CONSENT
TDC has appointed a consultant to assist with renewal of the district wide discharge consent.
Start of consultation with key stakeholders.
TDC CLIMATE CHANGE – ADOPTION OF EMISSIONS REDUCTION TARGETS & DIRECTIVE –https://www.taupodc.govt.nz/council/news?item=id:2j9n4bu5v1cxbyyqa0tf
Refer also District Future Development Strategy and Strategic Partnership Fund criteria above
COMPOSTABLE WASTE MINIMISATION INITIATIVE: MYNOKE support circular economy processes for Taupō businesses and institutions. (N.B. MYNOKE are currently contracted take TDC wastewater sludge to turn into vermicast.) For more info se: https://sustainable.org.nz/people/ and https://www.mynoke.co.nz/
TE KAUPAPA KAITIAKI ~ TAUPŌ CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN: Te Kōpu ā Kānapanapa, a co-governance body with membership from Te Kotahitanga o Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Waikato Regional Council and Taupō District Council, is developing a management plan (Te Kaupapa Kaitaki) for the Taupō Catchment that seeks to protect, restore and enhance its environmental, cultural and spiritual health for current and future generations. The vision for the Taupō Catchment as set out in the Ngāti Tūwharetoa Claims Settlement Act 2018 is ‘for a healthy Taupō Catchment that is capable of sustaining the whole community and that is managed in a manner that reflects Ngāti Tūwharetoa tikanga’. More about the Plan: https://www.tekaupapakaitiaki.co.nz/te-kaupapa-kaitiaki/ or
https://subsite.waikatoregion.govt.nz/community/your-community/iwi/te-kaupapa-kaitiaki/
For Te Kōpu ā Kānapanapa agendas: Next meeting (Nothing scheduled for 2025)
https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/community/whats-happening/council-meetings/te-kopua-kanapanapa/
Film: Te Kopu a Kanapanapa / Te Piringa: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IY5MUieaRNg
ENVIRONMENT WAIKATO:
WRC’s FRESHWATER POLICY REVIEW – Combined Joint Working Party established, October 2024 – Waikato/Waipa Catchments Freshwater decision making Committee established, October 2024 – Waikato/Waipa catchments, Round 3 targeted iwi/sector engagement – October-July 2025
Round 4 engagement of all parties including the wider community October – November 2025
Draft Plan ready by December 2025, notification by 2027
Further information: www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/freshwater-policy-review
PC1 HEALTHY RIVERS/WAI ORA: The decisions documents are available on Waikato Regional Council’s website www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/healthyrivers. The Environment Court hearing is complete and we now await the Court’s decision (end of 24/beginning of 25) Further appeals on the Environment Court decision will be based on points of law, process then goes to the High Court. Likely that PC1 will become operative during the Coalition Government’s RMA review timeline which will create further complexities.
In August 2021, the Government released the findings of a review of Overseer. The review identified shortcomings in Overseer’s modelling approach.
LAKE TAUPŌ PROTECTION TRUST The trust settlors (the Crown, Waikato Regional Council, and Taupō District Council), agreed that Taupō District Council would retain and become the sole trustee of the Lake Taupō Protection Trust. This decision allowed the efficient transfer of functions and responsibilities without losing the gains associated with the trust such as reputation, landowner relationships, and administration processes. https://protectinglaketaupo.nz/the-trust/
WRC CHAPTER 3.10 REVIEW: WRC has separated the review of Variation 5 (now called Chapter 3.10) into 2 stages - stage 1 relates to the Overseer version issue and stage 2 will target all other matters. Regional Council currently investigating implications of the NPS and NES Freshwater on the Waikato Regional Plan. Through that process, parts of the plan that need to be changed will be identified – those changes are likely to include further changes to the Taupo Chapter. The requirement is to notify changes no later than 2024. That means working towards changes will occur in next couple of years. (no update)
WRC PLAN CHANGE 2: TAUPŌ OVERSEER VERSION: The plan change was made operative on Monday 12 October 2020. More information on the plan change including the operative plan change document is now on the plan change website https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/council/policy-and-plans/rules-and-regulation/taupo-overseer/
N.B. Plantain now in OverseerFM as a pasture type on pastoral and cut and carry blocks
WRC CLIMATE CHANGE ROADMAP EMISSIONS MAN. & REDUCTION PLAN: Council approved its Climate Action Roadmap to guide internal activities, budget planning and opportunities to work with iwi partners and key stakeholders for a climate-resilient Waikato. The roadmap provides nine evidence-based pathways the council will take to respond to the impact of council actions on the climate and the implications of a changing climate on council activities including a proposal to help accelerate the uptake of low emission vehicles in the Waikato region. https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/assets/WRC/WRC-2019/Climate-Roadmap.pdf
LAKE TAUPŌ PROTECTION PROJECT ‘Te wai, te iwi Protecting Lake Taupō’ – publication http://www.protectinglaketaupo.nz/ (scroll down to video and click play)
WRC LAKE TAUPO’S WATER QUALITY DATA – Recreational Monitoring (re suitability for swimming)
https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/environment/envirohub/recwaterqualitydashboard/
Water quality for human contact recreation: Waikato Regional Council now measures bacteria levels (E. coli) in the water at five sites around the edge of Lake Taupō annually. E. coli bacteria is a useful indicator of the health risk for human contact recreation activities, such as swimming or water skiing.
Algal bloom reporting: scroll down to Lake Taupo on this WRC site:
https://waikatoregion.govt.nz/environment/natural-resources/water/rivers/waikato-river/algal-blooms/
REPORT: “WATER QUALITY OF LAKE TAUPŌ & ITS CATCHMENT 1973-2020” – comprehensive report being developed by Bill Vant & John Hadfield – available here: Water quality of Lake Taupō and its catchment to 2020 (waikatoregion.govt.nz)
https://www.lakesandwaterwaystaupo.org.nz/monthly-reports-2022/julyaugust-2022-inclduing-august-18th-agenda Follow link. Deep buoy site info here: https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/environment/natural-resources/water/lakes/lake-taupo/lake-taupos-water-quality/ WRC’s monitoring of Lake Taupō’s open water quality shows the lake continues to be of high quality, clear and low in nutrients. However, increasing nitrate levels in the bottom waters of the lake could lead to increases in algae, which can reduce clarity. WRC measures Secchi depth at their open water sampling site to monitor Lake Taupō's water clarity over time. They also collect water samples in the top 10 metres of the lake at this site to measure chlorophyll a, total phosphorus and total nitrogen. The online table gives their average chlorophyll a values for the period 1994 to 2020.
NIWA buoy WRC have contracted Dr Piet Verburg from NIWA to undertake a study using the monitoring buoy data from Lake Taupo. This study will focus on evaporation from the lake, and how this changes over the time the buoy has been in place.
GOVERNMENT
MfE Fast-Track Approvals Bill – LWAG submitted on this. Passed - The purpose of the legislation is to provide a streamlined 'one stop shop' decision-making process to facilitate the delivery of infrastructure and development projects with significant regional or national benefits. The Act contains a list of 149 regional and national projects. Substantive applications for projects 'listed' in the Act to use the fast-track approvals process and referral applications for other projects to use the process may be lodged from 7 February 2025.
Read the Act here . The Ministry for the Environment also has information on its website.
RMA national direction Submissions are invited on proposals to update national direction for 1) infrastructure, development and the 2) primary sector and on 3) options to amend freshwater national direction, and test how housing proposals could fit into the new resource management system. Submissions due Sunday 27 July
Feedback is also sought on whether proposed changes should be implemented now under the RMA, or incorporated into the upcoming RMA replacement legislation.
MfE NPS Freshwater: The Government is consulting on proposals to amend the:
· National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPS-FM)
· Resource Management (National Environmental Standards for Freshwater) Regulations 2020 (NES-F)
https://consult.environment.govt.nz/resource-management/freshwater-national-direction/
Submissions due Sunday 27 July
(See also Environmental Defense media release & link to RNZ interview with Dr. Mike Joy below)
The requirement to notify new regional freshwater plans by the end of 2024 at the latest has been extended to the end of 2027. Select committee report back - 30 September 2024 (Primary Production Committee). Background: Last December, the Resource management (Natural and Built Environment and Spatial Planning Repeal and Interim Fast-track Consenting) Act 2023 was repealed, which extended the statutory period that the council has to progress its policy review and notify its freshwater planning instruments from December 2024 to December 2027.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT WATER SERVICES BILL ‘WATER DONE WELL’ (Formerly 3 Waters): Sets out details relating to the water services delivery system, economic regulation and consumer protection regime and changes to the water quality regulatory framework. Submissions closed Sunday 23 February 2025. TDC sought submissions to its proposed ‘Our Water Done Well’ (See above)
WATER SERVICES AUTHORITY - TAUMATA AROWAI is consulting on proposed national WASTEWATER environmental performance standards.
https://korero.taumataarowai.govt.nz/regulatory/wastewater-standards/
Public consultation on the proposed wastewater standards closed April 2025.
REGULATORY STANDARDS BILL – Submissions closed
LOCAL GOVERNMENT REFORM update - Government reforms that refocus local councils on delivering essential services and core infrastructure, spending responsibly, and operating under greater scrutiny. The first benchmarking report on local councils will be released in the middle of 2025 and is expected to include a number of key council performance metrics. Cabinet will consider additional measures to ‘Local Water Done Well’ which will be included in legislation introduced mid-2025 and passed by the end of 2025.
CLIMATE CHANGE RESPONSE (ZERO CARBON) AMMENDMENT ACT– The Government has taken agriculture out of the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (NZ ETS) and will establish a new Pastoral Sector Group to constructively tackle biogenic methane. (Beehive media release June 2024) ALSO: The government said it would introduce legislation (before the end of 2024) to remove a ban on offshore petroleum exploration to attract investment to the country's oil and gas sector.
Independent review on biogenic methane science and targets: The Government has released an independent review on New Zealand’s biogenic methane science and target and will now consider the findings. The panel’s final report on the latest methane science finds:
· In a scenario where the rest of the world rapidly increases its climate policies to meet the 1.5 degrees warming Paris goal, then reducing New Zealand’s biogenic methane emissions by 24% by 2050 would satisfy the goal of achieving no additional warming on 2017 levels by 2050.
· In scenarios where global emissions of greenhouse gasses do not reduce rapidly in the next couple of decades, a reduction in 2017 biogenic methane emission levels of around 14-15% by 2050 would satisfy the goal of achieving no additional warming on 2017 levels by 2050.
MfE - OUR JOURNEY TOWARD NET ZERO On 11 December 2024, Government released the second emissions reduction plan. The plan includes eight key policies that will have the greatest potential emissions savings over the next five years:
· Enabling more renewable energy projects through Electrify NZ
· Recognising carbon capture, utilisation and storage in the NZ ETS
· Targeting a network of 10,000 EV charging points by 2030
· Introducing agricultural emissions pricing systems by 2030 and incentivising the uptake of new technologies
· Exploring private-sector partnerships to plant trees on Crown-owned land which has low conservation value and low farming value
· Introducing a regulated product stewardship scheme for refrigerants from 2025
· Leveraging the Waste Minimisation Fund to enable resource recovery systems and infrastructure to process organic waste
· Improving organic waste management and landfill gas capture to increase landfill gas recovery rates.
Climate Change Commission advice on fourth emissions budget and the 2050 target
On 5 December, the Climate Change Commission released advice on the fourth emissions budget and the 2025 target. The report makes several recommendations aimed at strengthening the 2050 target and emissions budgets that lead to it. These include:
· Strengthening the 2050 target from net-zero emissions to negative 20 Mt CO2-e, including emissions from international aviation and shipping
· Reducing biogenic methane emissions to 35–47 per cent below 2017 levels by 2050
· Setting the fourth emissions budget at 160 Mt CO2-e
· Tightening the first three emission budgets.
The Government will consider and respond to the Commission’s reports and recommendations on the 2050 target, international aviation and shipping, the methane target, the fourth emissions budget and existing emission budgets, within the next 12 months. The fourth emissions budget must be set by 31 December 2025
DoC – NIWA DoC park weather site: https://weather.niwa.co.nz/parks
LAWA (Land, Air, Water, Aotearoa) reports on nation-wide water quality results https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/swimming
MERCURY ENERGY LAKE LEVEL LINK
https://www.mercury.co.nz/lakelevels
Scroll down to select ‘Long term’ or ‘Short term’ & hover curser over lake level lines for specific info including current level
SCIENCE INFORMATION
Acacia Bay water temperature live data is published on the LAWA staging site.
Please find link here: http://lawa.staging.iteffect.co.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/lakes/lake-taupo/
LERNZ Lake Ecosystem Restoration New Zealand “Linking lake restoration research with end users to achieve outcomes”. Please see the ‘our people’ section of this website (http://www.lernz.co.nz/people) and the University of Waikato website (http://sci.waikato.ac.nz/about-us/school-of-science/staff) www.lernz.co.nz
WRC Lake Taupō Water Quality Monitoring: Water quality for ecological health; measures Secchi depth at open water sampling site to monitor Lake Taupō's water clarity over time. They also collect water samples in the top 10 metres of lake to measure chlorophyll a, total phosphorus and total nitrogen. Water quality for human contact recreation; bacteria levels (E. coli) in the water at a number of sites around the edge of Lake Taupō. https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/environment/natural-resources/water/lakes/lake-taupo/lake-taupos-water-quality/ or contact WRC’s Lakes Scientist/Programme Manager - Science & Strategy Directorate
SOE WAIKATO REGION 2022 State of the Environment 2022 | Waikato Regional Council
WATER QUALITY OF LAKE TAUPŌ & ITS CATCHMENT 1973-2020 Water quality of Lake Taupō and its catchment to 2020 (waikatoregion.govt.nz)
FRESHWATER FOR LIFE offers ‘independent honesty into freshwater environmental reporting in New Zealand’: https://waterqualitynz.info/
ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS AND ORGANISATIONS
ADVOCATES FOR THE TONGARIRO RIVER – Contact: secretary@tongariroriver.org.nz and check out their website https://www.tongariroriver.org.nz/ One of the aims of the Advocates for the Tongariro River is to build widespread public awareness and support for affirmative action on key issues affecting the Tongariro River and its environment. All welcome.
LAKES WATER QUALITY SOC. ‘Te Kahui Kounga Wai’ – Taking care of the Rotorua Lakes–https://lakeswaterquality.co.nz/ The Society is a community organisation that works on behalf of the whole Rotorua Community and many outside of Rotorua to ensure that lakes remain or are restored to a high quality.
The Society is a community organisation that works on behalf of the whole Rotorua Community and many outside of Rotorua to ensure that lakes remain or are restored to a high quality. secretary@lakeswaterquality.co.nz
DOC/TONGARIRO NATIONAL TROUT CENTRE Taupō for Tomorrow education programme website: www.taupofortomorrow.co.nz no longer being funded so school educational opportunities limited.
Take part in events run by the Department of Conservation, local businesses, and community groups during
Sign up for ‘What’s Up DOC?” newsletter for national projects and resources online.
MAHI AROHA SUMMER PROGRAMME CENTRAL NTH IS (See Project Tongariro below)
TREES THAT COUNT (Project Crimson affiliated) A digital marketplace connecting native tree planters with funders and counting trees. From their website: By counting the trees we all plant, we can measure our collective impact on climate change and improve our environment. As they grow, these native trees will help to remove about 2,498,207 tonnes of carbon from our atmosphere. Link to newsletter and other info here: https://www.treesthatcount.co.nz/
VOLUNTEERS WANTED
NATIONAL WETLAND TRUST http://www.wetlandtrust.org.nz a non-profit organisation established to increase the appreciation of wetlands and their values by all New Zealanders. The reserve between Hamilton and Te Awamutu is open to the public. Access is via double wooden gates off SH 3, between McFall and Jary Roads (left hand turn in and out only). The Trust is also keen to hear from willing volunteers.
PROJECT TONGARIRO: - Plenty of opportunities to get involved...check out their volunteer activities! shirley@tongariro.org.nz Contact Shirley if you would like to help our SMALL Wednesday weeders group.
To get involved check out - https://www.tongariro.org.nz/ for this season’s planting days or email: info@tongariro.org.nz p: +64 7 386 6499
Predator Free Taupō – see their Facebook page for information on what's happening here & elsewhere in New Zealand. If you are keen to become involved or wish to donate a trap or two to help protect Taupō's native flora and fauna contact them: info@tongariro.org.nz
Toyota Kiwi Guardians Lake Rotopounamu part of a nation-wide programme encouraging families to get out and explore our special places.
GREENING TAUPŌ – Planting Days here: https://www.greeningtaupo.org.nz/ for this season’s planting days or contact: Robyn Ellis, Greening Taupō Coordinator 027 628 8008 or e.mail info@greeningtaupo.org.nz Look out for details in The Taupō Times, on radio, at www.greeningtaupo.org.nz or contact info@greeningtaupo.org.nz. Greening Taupō/Arbor Day Thursday 5th June 10 am Tauhara Rd. Sat 19th July 11 am at Tauhara Maunga/Matariki Planting Tauhara collective.
EEC – TAUPO ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION COLLABORATIVE aims to: COLLABORATE amongst local organisations for effective mahi; CONNECT to real life educational opportunities; EMPOWER students, teachers and communities; and DEVELOP rangatahi to be kaitiaki/stewards and decision makers. Many opportunities to connect! https://www.eectaupo.co.nz/
PWMT - Pukawa Wildlife Management Trust: set up to improve the birdlife in and around the Pukawa settlement on the southern shores of Lake Taupō. Contact Jean Stanley on 0274504982 or morepork02@gmail.com
FOREST & BIRD TAUPO BRANCH: Branch contact: Laura Dawson Phone 07 378 5975 Email laura@reap.org.nz or visit the website to get involved at: http://www.forestandbird.org.nz/branches/taupo
Forest & Bird in conjunction with DoC and Predator Free Taupō, project to clear the Opepe Reserve (on the Napier Taupo Road - 15 km out of town) of pests and bring back the birds. What is involved? - checking trap lines, emptying traps and re-setting them. If this appeals to you, please see: https://predatorfreetaupo.nz/ - click on Projects.
MOTUOAPA RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION – contact Larry Hadley (treasurer) to get involved and/or receive their newsletter troutnabout.nz@gmail.comLWQ Soc Rotorua Lakes –
Biodiversity crisis in New Zealand link: https://theconversation.com/despite-its-green-image-nz-has-worlds-highest-proportion-of-species-at-risk-116063
Lakes & Waterways website
Check it out & feedback (and pictures) welcome: www.lakesandwaterwaystaupo.org.nz
Freshwater latest news
The Water Services Authority - Taumata Arowai (the Authority) consulted on proposed national wastewater environmental performance standards.
The proposed standards are expected to:
· result in significant cost and time efficiencies for consenting of wastewater treatment plants, in a way that responds to the bow wave of reconsenting of wastewater infrastructure over the next decade
· strike a balance between the cost of upgrading wastewater infrastructure while ensuring that public health and environmental outcomes are achieved
· create national consistency to give councils the certainty needed to plan and fund the significant infrastructure upgrades that much of New Zealand’s aging public wastewater networks requires
· set clear expectations about treatment quality to assist with community engagement about different options to manage wastewater
· ensure that, as a sector, there is good quality wastewater performance data to identify what’s working well as well as opportunities for improvement.
The proposed standards would require councils to consistently monitor and report on their wastewater performance in key areas.
Public consultation on the proposed wastewater standards closed Thursday, 24 April 2025.
https://korero.taumataarowai.govt.nz/regulatory/wastewater-standards/
Concern over national waste water proposals Kathryn Ryan spoke with Freshwater scientist Dr Mike Joy; and Sara McFall, head of systems, strategy, and performance at Taumata Arowai.
Concerns about Lake Taupō pollution under proposed blanket national wastewater standards May 2025
RNZ 21st May, Libby Kirkby McLeod, Reporter (abridged).
In a submission to the Water Services Authority - Taumata Arowai, Waikato Regional Council said the standards could result in water quality loss across the region.
"Many existing municipal wastewater discharges have contaminant standards in their existing consents or current applications which are of higher quality than what the Standards would require. The Standards would undo significant work and investment already undertaken by territorial authorities and encouraged by the Council, in upgrading wastewater treatment plant discharges," the council said in its submission.
Waikato Regional Council's Mike Scarsbrook said it was like setting one speed limit for every road in the country - some might end up safer, but others would be made more dangerous.
"The challenge with having national standards is that some waterways that might need a greater level of protection aren't necessarily protected by those national standards," he said.
One area which needed higher than average standards was Lake Taupō.
The council asked that the new standards not impact the work that had been done to restore the lake, or override the Lake Taupō provisions of the Regional Plan.
"When we've looked at the current standards across the region, versus the proposed standards, there is quite a marked softening of the standards compared to what's in place already, including around Lake Taupō," Scarsbrook said.
Another concern for the council was that the proposed standards would conflict with existing Treaty Settlement obligations.
In its submission, the regional council recommended the Water Services Authority clarified the relationship between the wastewater standards and Treaty Settlement obligations including Te Ture Whaimana.
TAUPO CLIMATE CHANGE FORUM (TCAG) – local initiative
Creating a community for Taupō locals who advocate for climate change mitigation through a range of solutions such as minimising fossil fuel use, walking and cycling, reduced consumption, plastic free solutions, and waste minimization. We meet quarterly and get involved in a variety of initiatives including submission to Local and Central government, education, advocacy, and coordinating with like-minded groups.
Next Meeting 1.15 pm Friday June 13th upstairs at the Taupō Library
We will have a catch up and discuss our recent & ongoing community engagement
All welcome
Please contact Jane on janehadiadup@hotmail.com
The 13 biggest environmental problems of 2022
According to Earth.Org, the 13 biggest environmental problems of 22 are:
1. Global warming from fossil fuels 2. Poor governance 3. Food waste 4. Biodiversity loss
5. Plastic pollution 6. Deforestation 7. Air pollution 8. Melting ice caps and sea level rise
9. Ocean acidification 10. Agriculture 11. Food and water insecurity 12. Fast fashion and textile waste
13. Overfishing
WRC Freshwater Policy Review Update received 30/11/2022 (Abridged)
The Waikato Regional Council is making changes to its regional policy statement and regional plan. These changes are part of our Freshwater Policy Review, which is part of the council’s response to central government directions on how freshwater is managed in our region.
Policy development - Policy development is progressing and will consider the feedback we have received from our communities, stakeholders and tangata whenua, alongside science information about the state of waterways and trends across the region.
For information regarding the current state of freshwater within the Waikato region, please refer to Land, Air, Water Aotearoa (Land, Air, Water Aotearoa (LAWA) - Waikato region) and the Waikato Regional Council environmental data hub (Environmental data hub | Waikato Regional Council).
Freshwater Gold Clams
6th August interview with MPI's director of pest management John Walsh
https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/freshwater-pests/gold-clams/
Gold clams are a species of freshwater clam native to eastern Asia which have become an unwanted invasive species around the world. Biosecurity NZ (BNZ) is the lead agency in the early stages of an incursion response to the discovery of gold clams. DOC and stakeholders – including river iwi, Waikato Regional Council, Waikato River Authority, Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand, Mercury Energy, and others – are supporting BNZ as part of the response.
How can I help?
DOC supports Biosecurity NZ’s request for whitebaiters to fish in only one river. If fishers wish to move to another river, they should use different fishing gear (nets, screens, and spotterboards).
Fishing gear should be washed thoroughly then dried, and neoprene gear such as waders should be frozen to kill any larvae remaining in the residual water.
Check, Clean, Dry to help prevent the spread of freshwater pests
Check, Clean, Dry (external site) practices are more important than ever. The methodology has been updated for gold clam and is applicable around NZ. It is wise to stay within a single river system and work from upstream to downstream.
Gold clams found, Lake Taupō Aqua Park closed under biosecurity controls December 2024:
Lake Taupō Aqua Park will permanently close as a way to ensure the elimination of freshwater clams after being temporarily shuttered in March when Biosecurity New Zealand discovered the presence of
the invasive species in the lagoon.
MPI Update On Corbicula (Gold Clam) Long-term Management March 2025
Corbicula moves to long-term management
Biosecurity New Zealand thanks all our partners who have contributed to the response effort to contain Corbicula and for your continued mahi to protect our waterways. The involvement of iwi, regional councils, river and lake users, and other agencies has been critical throughout the response phase, and will continue to be key in helping stop the spread in the long-term.
The Freshwater Biosecurity Partnership Programme involves key partners Biosecurity New Zealand, Department of Conservation, Fish and Game New Zealand, Land Information New Zealand, Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board, other mana whenua, power companies, Te Uru Kahika (regional council collective), and industry groups.
The partnership programme works to understand and manage regional and national pathways through which significant freshwater pests are spread. Its focus is to increase knowledge, share expertise, develop best practice for management, and support the Check Clean Dry campaign and other freshwater biosecurity operations around the country.
With Corbicula moving to long-term management, this will be the last newsletter from the Corbicula response. Biosecurity New Zealand and our partners will continue to update our websites as things develop, so keep an eye on those. Future updates on the management of the freshwater clam will be included in the Check Clean Dry newsletter.
To receive the newsletter, subscribe here.
The contact email address for Corbicula is now corbiculalongterm@mpi.govt.nz
Corbicula Collaborative Long-term Management Plan
The focus of the Corbicula fluminea Collaborative Long-term Management Plan is to contain the clam to the current known areas in the Waikato catchment area, reduce its impact where feasible, and develop tools to achieve this.
A national surveillance strategy, and a rapid assessment plan for new incursions will be developed under the plan. Other work includes research to better understand the clam’s impact on our waterways and expanding public awareness of Corbicula.
The pest management directorate of Biosecurity New Zealand has overall responsibility for long-term management, with oversight by the partnership programme steering group. Local councils and the Department of Conservation will lead operational delivery of the plan in partnership with iwi.
See the plan on the MPI website
Rapid Assessment Plan
A Rapid Assessment Plan is being developed to provide guidance in the event of a new detection of Corbicula outside the Waikato River controlled area. If a new detection is confirmed, a Regional Corbicula Working Group involving mana whenua, councils, the Department of Conservation, research providers and Biosecurity New Zealand would be established to manage the incursion.
The group will make decisions on the feasibility for implementing any regulations, population delimiting or elimination actions, and oversee the planning of this work.
It is pleasing to see all this activity to help river and lake users understand what they need to do to contain the Corbicula clam to the Waikato River.
Surveillance update
Biosecurity New Zealand’s aquatic readiness team is finalising a national Corbicula surveillance plan, which will soon be shared with regional biosecurity partners. The plan aims to maximise the likelihood of early detection of Corbicula in areas of New Zealand where the species has not yet been detected.
Key recommendations in the plan include a substantial increase in the number of eDNA samples collected per sampling unit, and the use of visual sampling techniques, such as benthic dredge tows. Early detection allows for timely management and intervention processes, significantly increasing the chances of successful containment.
Biosecurity New Zealand is collaborating with regional partners for eDNA surveillance of 12 high-risk waterbodies across the country. This is being implemented locally by regional partners and applies a higher eDNA sampling rate than previous efforts. Visual sampling techniques are planned for later this year.
Lake Ōkataina automated gate
A new automated gate arm has been installed at the Lake Ōkataina boat ramp, allowing boaties who have followed the Check Clean Dry procedures to access the lake from the boat ramp.
The gate and its installation have been funded jointly by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Rotorua Lakes District Council and Biosecurity New Zealand.
New signs at The Wash Place, 338 Te Ngae Road, explain the process for lake users to access the Lake Ōkataina boat ramp.
Boaties must follow these steps:
· Wash your craft at The Wash Place according to the instructions at the site.
· Scan the QR code in the wash bay using a phone camera.
· Fill out and submit the online form while at The Wash Place to receive 2 PIN access codes (the area is geo-fenced).
· Use the first 4-digit PIN received by email and text to open the gate at the boat ramp. You must use this PIN within 2 hours of receiving it.
· Use the second PIN when exiting the lake.
Detailed instructions are available on the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Programme website Lake Ōkataina new automated boat ramp gate system Rotorua Lakes
See details of the Controlled Area Notice on the Biosecurity New Zealand website Rules to stop the spread of Corbicula.
If users have any problems with the PIN a sign at the gate has contact details for assistance. Note, there is no overnight parking or camping allowed at the Lake Ōkataina scenic reserve.
Taupō Aqua Park
Treatment to eliminate Corbicula australis from the lagoon near Taupō began earlier this month. There has been a positive response with many dead clams surfacing following application of the treatment. Treatment will take up to 10 weeks and includes monitoring the clam population to provide confidence that the clam has been eliminated from the lagoon.
Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board: championing summer waterway protection
It’s been a big summer of mahi for local iwi who have joined with agencies to champion protecting Taupō lakes and rivers from invasive species, including successfully processing thousands of competitors for the Ironman 70.3 World Championship.
Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board holds title to Taupō Waters, which includes the lakebed of Lake Taupō, the Waikato River up to Te Toka a Tia (the Rock of Tia), Huka Falls, and the beds of various rivers and streams flowing into Lake Taupō. This significant responsibility drives its efforts to preserve these waters.
Iwi teams joined the Department of Conservation (DOC), Waikato Regional Council and Biosecurity New Zealand to engage with those at boat ramps and on the water, to ensure they understand best practice for cleaning craft and equipment.
In December last year more than 6,000 athletes from around the world arrived in Taupō for the Ironman 70.3 World Championship. Trust kaimahi joined with DOC and Council staff to speak to each triathlete at registration to determine if they had followed the Check Clean Dry procedures. Only 15 had not done so, and their gear was washed for them.
Trust kaimahi also engaged with local fishers and boaters at fishing spots and reached out to whānau and hāpori (community) to share Check Clean Dry information, educate about the shared responsibility to protect our water ways, and remind them about water safety. The Trust also monitored commercial operators during the season.
Ka pai to the Trust and our partners for this mahi, which underscores the need for a collective effort as we continue the work to prevent the spread of Corbicula.
Ballast-tank treatment trials
Biosecurity New Zealand collaborated with Waikato Regional Council and the New Zealand Water Ski Racing Association to conduct trials of a hot-water treatment.
The one-off trial used a system developed by the council to treat the inside of ballast tanks with hot water (heated to 50-55 degrees) for 5 minutes, a treatment scientifically proven to kill juvenile Corbicula.
The "hot water trolley" system was successfully tested on 22 boats with hard ballast tanks. The trials showed that ballast tanks could be successfully cleaned at a high temperature and decontaminated prior to entering the waterways.
A pilot ballast-tank treatment service is planned to address the need for an accessible ballast-tank cleaning option for boaties who use Waikato waters. Work is underway to develop service specifications, a verification system, and to identify a suitable Waikato-based service provider
Keeping the momentum going at Karāpiro
The Lake Karāpiro ambassador team is now half-way through the busy season of events that take place near where the clam was first found in May 2023. Lake Karāpiro is a major hub for water sports activities, hosting local, regional and national events each year.
A flagship event, the week-long Waka Ama Nationals, attracted a record of nearly 4,000 paddlers and thousands of spectators in January. The ambassador team worked closely with the event organisers on pre-event communication and making sure everyone was aware of the Check Clean Dry requirement to prevent the spread of Corbicula.
Ambassadors were on-site every day, with interactive activities to draw young people to the marquee. Over the week, they engaged with a large number of paddlers and supporters as well as overseeing boat washing and ensuring best practices were followed.
Almost 4,000 rowers and 13,000 spectators have been exposed to the Check Clean Dry messaging at recent rowing regattas.
Over the busy Christmas period, the team trialled an electronic board at the entrance of Mighty River Domain and nearby Hora Hora Domain, to reach the free independent water users coming to Lake Karāpiro. This was successful in grabbing the attention of recreational users and campers.
With Biosecurity New Zealand support, an informative video was shared on the Lake Karāpiro Facebook page attracting nearly 1,000 views to date. It was also shared by stakeholders to their communities.
The final large event of the season, the Maadi Rowing Cup for high school students, will attract 2,300 participants and around 12,000 spectators to Lake Karāpiro in March.
A group of young paddlers is schooled up on the invasive clam during the Waka Ama Nationals at Lake Karāpiro in January.
Connecting with Waikato River users
A team of Waikato Regional Council (WRC) freshwater biosecurity advocacy students were busy throughout the summer period greeting river users on boat ramps in the CAN zone and educating them about preventing the spread of gold clams. Their messages were well-received, with most of these water users wanting to learn more and take action to stop the spread.
The results of surveys taken during this time proved the need for this advocacy among free, independent water users: of the 361 people surveyed at boat ramps within the Controlled Area Notice area, 42% were not aware that Corbicula had been found in the Waikato, and 62% had not heard about Check Clean Dry.
Many of these river users remembered the students on their second and third encounter and were able to repeat the key learnings to prevent spread.
The WRC ambassadors also attended the Taupō Ironman event in support of the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board team, and several events at Lake Maraetai.
EDS has concerns over sweeping review of National Direction under the RMA
29 May 2025
The Government today released for consultation an unprecedented package of reforms to national direction under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). This review covers 12 existing instruments and proposes 4 new ones – making it the largest overhaul of national direction in the Act’s history.
National direction – including national policy statements, environmental standards, planning standards, and section 360 regulations – sits at the core of the RMA.
“These instruments drive local planning and consent decisions across key domains such as freshwater, indigenous biodiversity, the coastal marine area, and more. They are, in effect, the engine-room of the environmental management system and are incredibly important,” said EDS Chief Operating Officer and resource management lawyer Shay Schlaepfer.
“EDS will undertake a detailed and rigorous analysis of the proposals over the coming days. However, serious concerns are already emerging from our preliminary review, including:
1. Undermining Te Mana o te Wai – The proposed rebalancing of the hierarchy of obligations embedded in Te Mana o te Wai would significantly weaken protections by removing the clear requirement to prioritise the health and wellbeing of water bodies over uses.
2. Cattle grazing in wetlands now allowed – Even if the wetland contains threatened species.
3. New provisions weaken environmental bottom lines – The reprioritisation of freshwater objectives is likely to leave gaps, have cumulative adverse effects, allow more pollution and breach FTAs.
4. Mining even more enabled – Easier consenting pathways are proposed in valued environments.
5. Forestry reforms miss the mark – The review of the National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry appears to sidestep the fundamental structural and operational failings in those standards in spite of EDS drawing those matters to attention of the Minister.
“The context of the wider reform process raises critical questions of coherence and purpose. This extensive revision is occurring under the framework of the RMA, at the very time the Government is proposing to replace it with two new statutes that will have different enabling provisions for national direction. That suggests this review is being driven more by political expediency and ad hoc coalition agreements than sound policy logic.
“Importantly, any changes made to national direction as a result of this process must comply with the purpose and principles of the RMA, including its purpose of achieving sustainable management of natural and physical resources. Where proposals fall short, legal challenge is likely.
“We will release further commentary, analysis and webinars as our expert team works through the full breadth of the discussion documents. EDS will itself be presenting detailed feedback and will oppose any lowering of necessary environmental protections,” concluded Ms Schlaepfer.
Ecologist Mike Joy on proposed changes to freshwater regulations - Morning Report, 30th May, 2025
Freshwater ecologist Mike Joy slams proposed changes to freshwater regulations in his discussion with to Ingrid Hipkiss.
The Local Government (Water Services) Bill – Submissions closed
It is significant for regional councils as it proposes to introduce a new single standard for wastewater and stormwater environmental performance.
This sets out the enduring arrangements for local delivery of water services and includes extensive provisions relating to (among other things):
· Governance arrangements for the provision of water services, and local authority decision-making requirements
· The powers, functions, and responsibilities of water service providers
· The establishment of consumer trusts to own/co-own water organisations
· Charging for water services
· The economic regulation of water services by the Commerce Commission
· Access to finance for CCOs established to provide water services
· Central government intervention.
Council workshop explores options for second river crossing
(abridged TDC website May 23)
A council workshop discussed the results of a study and modelling on congestion across Control Gates Bridge, the likely impacts of future growth on traffic; and possible options for further investigation.
Any solution to relieve congestion must:
Support long-term growth
Improve the efficiency of the transport network
Improve resilience, both in terms of natural disasters and maintenance
Split travel routes so that all traffic entering Taupō is not funnelled to the same place
Allow for walking and cycling as well as vehicles
A study undertaken by consultants WSP looked at options ranging from a three lane or four lane bridge in the current location to adding a second two-lane bridge downstream, plus various ways of connecting into the Taupō CBD and further east.
At this stage, modelling shows that a second bridge downstream of the current bridge with a link to Spa Rd via Opepe St would best support growth and increase efficiency and resilience. It would avoid the Tongariro St/Spa Rd roundabout and split traffic heading east towards schools and the industrial area away from traffic heading to the Taupō town centre. This is a draft proposal only.
Next steps:
Refine the options
Explore what intersection changes might be needed
Work with the current Control Gates bridge owner (Mercury)
Engage with iwi and hapū
Refine the budget and explore funding sources, for example NZTA funding
Review growth and growth models
The project was included as a line item in the Long-term Plan for 2024-34 so that council could begin to collect development contributions towards the cost and also start detailed investigations. We will consult with the community on this project in 2027 as part of the 2027-37 Long-term Plan.
The indicative budget is $76.9 million however this figure will be refined over the next few years, depending on final options and designs.
The earliest possible dates for construction could be around 2030 but this will be determined by the rate of traffic growth and the outcomes of the public and stakeholder consultation
Govt warned over huge shortfall in meeting climate targets
- From RNZ Morning Report, 8:27 am on 27 May 2025
The government was warned to expect overseas scrutiny over a huge shortfall in its plans for meeting the country's international climate target. Climate Change Correspondent Eloise Gibson spoke to Corin Dann.
From RNZ Morning Report, 8:27 am on 27 May 2025
EDS has concerns over sweeping review of National Direction under the RMA
29 May 2025
The Government today released for consultation an unprecedented package of reforms to national direction under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). This review covers 12 existing instruments and proposes 4 new ones – making it the largest overhaul of national direction in the Act’s history.
National direction – including national policy statements, environmental standards, planning standards, and section 360 regulations – sits at the core of the RMA.
“These instruments drive local planning and consent decisions across key domains such as freshwater, indigenous biodiversity, the coastal marine area, and more. They are, in effect, the engine-room of the environmental management system and are incredibly important,” said EDS Chief Operating Officer and resource management lawyer Shay Schlaepfer.
“EDS will undertake a detailed and rigorous analysis of the proposals over the coming days. However, serious concerns are already emerging from our preliminary review, including:
1. Undermining Te Mana o te Wai – The proposed rebalancing of the hierarchy of obligations embedded in Te Mana o te Wai would significantly weaken protections by removing the clear requirement to prioritise the health and wellbeing of water bodies over uses.
2. Cattle grazing in wetlands now allowed – Even if the wetland contains threatened species.
3. New provisions weaken environmental bottom lines – The reprioritisation of freshwater objectives is likely to leave gaps, have cumulative adverse effects, allow more pollution and breach FTAs.
4. Mining even more enabled – Easier consenting pathways are proposed in valued environments.
5. Forestry reforms miss the mark – The review of the National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry appears to sidestep the fundamental structural and operational failings in those standards in spite of EDS drawing those matters to attention of the Minister.
“The context of the wider reform process raises critical questions of coherence and purpose. This extensive revision is occurring under the framework of the RMA, at the very time the Government is proposing to replace it with two new statutes that will have different enabling provisions for national direction. That suggests this review is being driven more by political expediency and ad hoc coalition agreements than sound policy logic.
“Importantly, any changes made to national direction as a result of this process must comply with the purpose and principles of the RMA, including its purpose of achieving sustainable management of natural and physical resources. Where proposals fall short, legal challenge is likely.
“We will release further commentary, analysis and webinars as our expert team works through the full breadth of the discussion documents. EDS will itself be presenting detailed feedback and will oppose any lowering of necessary environmental protections,” concluded Ms Schlaepfer.