Our Nelson Issue 200 – 17 July 2024

Minister signs Nelson storm recovery deal 
Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery Mark Mitchell has seen firsthand the recovery work underway in Nelson following the severe weather event in August 2022.
During a visit on Monday, 15 July 2024, Nelson Mayor Nick Smith and Nelson City Council staff pointed out the work that would be completed with the assistance of a Government cost-sharing package worth up to $12.3 million that was signed by Minister Mitchell. This package includes:
Up to $6 million for the betterment of slips from Council-owned land affecting residential properties;
$300,000 to monitor the Tāhunanui Slump, covering a period of 10 years at $30,000 per annum;
Up to $6 million as a 50% contribution to support the buy-out of up to 17 slip-affected properties that meet Council’s eligibility buy-out principles.
Minister Mitchell says he is pleased property owners who are eligible for buy-outs under the joint Crown-Council package now have a way forward.
“The fallout from the August 2022 storm left these people in an uncertain position. I hope this voluntary buy-out package can help them face the future with a surer footing. I am also pleased to see Nelson City Council improving resilience as it repairs the slips on its land. Severe weather events will strike again so stronger resilience and mitigation measures are very important.”
Mayor Nick says the signing of the Government-Council agreement is another positive step in the recovery work in response to the August 2022 storm, the worst natural disaster to hit the Nelson region in 50 years.
“Nelson is grateful for the Government support, particularly at a time when households and businesses are under so much financial pressure. The combination of this specific package and other Government contributions brings the level of Government support to $26.3 million, leaving Council with an estimated repair bill of $87.2 million. This Government support enabled us to reduce the storm recovery charge from $440 to $300. 
"Council can now get on with the buy-outs for families left in limbo with properties that are uneconomic to repair. They have faced 22 months of uncertainty and now have a clear pathway to resolution.”
Moana Avenue resident Geoff Moffett is one of the property owners who faced that uncertainty and has been assessed as eligible for the buy-out scheme. 
“There’s sadness and relief for us after nearly two years of a life in limbo. We are sad to farewell our home of nearly 20 years. And we are relieved after a long battle to get to this situation. Now we can plan for the future, although the details of the buy-out are still to be finalised.” 
Mayor Nick says there are lessons to learn from the recovery work.
“I have put to the Minister that councils could save money and time if we also had access to fast-track processes for financing and consenting recovery work as we do for the emergency phase of a natural disaster. The bureaucratic processes of the Local Government Act have delayed this agreement by eight months, and I would like to work with the Government on reform to enable recovery work to be sped up.”
Council Deputy Chief Executive/Group Manager Infrastructure Alec Louverdis says letters have been sent to seven property owners assessed as eligible for the voluntary buy-out scheme. 
"Those who wish to participate have been asked to confirm their interest by 5 August 2024. Meetings will then be arranged for each participant to explain the process in more detail.
“Nine properties in Brook Street that Council has already bought will also be eligible for the scheme, meaning Council will now be able to claim a Crown contribution towards these purchases as well. Council purchased these Brook Street properties earlier this year after investigations revealed the landslide risk from the Council-owned land was higher than previously thought and there was no reasonable or cost-effective way for Council to remediate these slips.” 
Mayor Nick says Council does not intend to allow anyone to build on the land again. A bund will be installed to protect Council assets and neighbouring properties, and the land will then be planted, potentially becoming part of the Tantragee Reserve. 
The Government contribution of $300,000 to help Council monitor the Tāhunanui Slump is another key element of the cost-sharing package. 
“With 120 homes, of which 45 suffered damage in the August 2022 storm, along with a swathe of Council infrastructure, Government support for ongoing geotechnical monitoring is very welcome,” Mayor Nick says.
Congratulations to Ngā Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Puku o Te Ika a Maui from Rotorua/Te Arawa, champions of the 2024 Te Huinga Whetū Kapa Haka Kura Tuarua o Aotearoa, National Secondary School Kapa Haka Championships. 
Held at Trafalgar Centre from 24-28 June, 42 secondary school kapa haka groups from across Aotearoa took to the stage over four days. There were 2000 performers and over 15,000 spectators visiting Te Tauihu.
Ngā mihi nui to all the volunteers, local businesses, and organisations whose mahi behind the scenes made the event such a success. From providing accommodation and kai to arranging health and manaaki packs, the support from the local community ensured the event ran smoothly. The competition was co-hosted by Te Tauihu o te Waka a Māui Māori Cultural Council, Te Herenga Tahi (local Secondary Māori Teachers Association) and Kapa Haka Kura Tuarua. It was Te Tauihu’s first time hosting the secondary school kapa haka event, and it was fantastic to see so many people enjoying our city.  
We look forward to 2027 when Te Matatini comes to Te Tauihu.

New Saltwater Creek bridge connects water and land through toi Māori design
A much-anticipated new Saltwater Creek bridge with artwork designed by toi Māori artist Fayne Robinson has opened, combining striking design with modern, safe access for cyclists and pedestrians in the central city.
Te Arawhiti ki Matangi Āwhio, replaced the previous bridge spanning Saltwater Creek near the Trafalgar Centre. It was officially opened by Nelson Mayor Nick Smith and kaumātua on Friday 5 July.
It provides an essential connection to the Maitai shared pathway and ensures safe and easy access for tamariki to Auckland Point School, as well as for visitors to and from the Trafalgar Centre for events.
Mayor Nick says the old bridge, built in the 1980s, had corroded, its steel beams delaminated, and its wooden components rotted.
"This new bridge is about Nelson keeping up with renewals of our infrastructure and us being a pedestrian and cycling friendly city. We have invested in not just making it functional but also artistic, as it is near the main entrance to our city and used by thousands of visitors accessing the Trafalgar Centre.”
The artwork, designed by toi Māori artist Fayne Robinson, is an eye-catching design made up of two alternating triangular panels, the wheku and the kōwhaiwhai.
He says the panels acknowledge the eight iwi of Te Tauihu.  
“The kōwhaiwhai design represents the area through mahinga kai (traditional food gathering sites and practices).
“It connects to the water and the land, acknowledging this ancient site and its significance to the tribal wellbeing through food provision.   
“The wheku represents a dimensional presence of ngā iwi.”
The new bridge is 13.28 metres long and 3.75m wide.
Its structure is a single span steel warren truss with a hardwood deck for increased durability, and the steel trusses have been sealed to protect against corrosion.
Nelson City Council’s Acting Group Manager Infrastructure, David Light, says the bridge was ready for an upgrade.  
“Previous Council records from the 80’s aren’t always the most detailed. There’s information about the structure and abutments that we could only obtain after removing the bridge.  
“The support and protection of major utilities on either side of the road were of the utmost importance during construction, and given the cables provide power to the Port, it was pretty important we knew where all the cables were.”
Given its location, some aspects of the build required multiple locations around Trafalgar Centre to close for traffic management, including the removal of the old bridge and positioning of the new bridge.
Council worked to ensure these major closures would be done outside of the Giants home games and the kapa haka event. The original schedule was to complete the bridge at the end of June, but this was shifted by a week to accommodate some events. The project was completed to the budget of $630,000.  
Minimising disruption to Auckland Point School was another important consideration, and Council staff worked closely with the school to reduce any impact.
Acting Principal Janeen Strawbridge says many parents park at the Trafalgar Centre and walk their kids across the bridge to the school.  
“Once Council made us aware of the bridge closure, we had to figure out the timings for the extra distance to get into the city and also organise a drop-and-go system outside of the kura to allow safe commuting between home and school.  
“Auckland Point School tamariki have been eagerly watching the new bridge construction. Building the scaffolding, removing the old bridge and then the new bridge being dropped into position has been keenly observed. 
“We regularly use the Saltwater Creek bridge between our kura and the Trafalgar Centre. This is our gateway to adventures into the city venues such as the library, Suter Gallery, Queens Gardens and the museum. On Friday’s, our scooter club zooms across the bridge to enjoy the skate park during lunch time."  
Just hours after its official opening, the tamariki from Auckland Point School quickly put the bridge to work, crossing it to return books to the Elma Turner Library.
Hinau track now open in the Grampians Reserve
Get your walking shoes on! A new track is now open linking Hinau St in the Brook to the Grampians Walkway trig station at the top of the Collingwood zig zag. 
The new track will make it much easier to access the Grampians’ stunning views and tracks from the Brook side of the hill.
The Hinau track has been a couple of years in the making, due to disruptions from flooding and difficulty in removing pine trees. A big thanks to Dave from NLR and Kumanu for their hard work.
To know before you go:
The track starts at the end of Hinau Street and it takes about 20 minutes to reach the top.
Please ensure that you stick to the track and take extra care in wet conditions as the new track may become muddy and slippery in places (the worst areas will be progressively gravelled).
There is a known pest plant problem in the area, notably an infestation of climbing asparagus. This will be brought under control as part of Council’s wider weed control programme.
Dogs are welcome but please keep them on a lead when stock animals are in the reserve. Heading uphill, please be aware that once you pass through the gate at the top and join the Grampians Walkway, sheep may be grazing.
There will be a wider upgrade to signage in the Grampians in due course and further new trails will be opening on the Brook side, hopefully later in the year.
Nelson's Railway Reserve shines bright: $1.9 million lighting project complete
A project to light up 7.6 kilometres of the Railway Reserve is now complete.
Nelson Mayor Nick Smith switched on the final section of lights on Wednesday 10 July, providing a safer, well-lit shared pathway. 
The $1.9 million project began in March 2023 at the section behind Nelson Intermediate. The final section, alongside Jenkins Place, was completed this week. The Government’s Better Off funding package paid for 51% of the project.  
Mayor Nick says this project has improved both the safety of the Railway Reserve and extended its use. 
“The Railway Reserve is one of Nelson’s gems and the completion of this 7.6km lighting project will make it safer and more useable for cyclists and walkers. It is an investment of $1.9 million in making Nelson an even better place for walkers and cyclists.”    
Acting Group Manager Infrastructure David Light says like many projects, this one threw up some challenges. 
“Contractors encountered very hard ground as well as multiple underground services, which had to be maintained. The dry conditions meant the clay under the asphalt had become hard, testing the contractors and machinery. 
“It was also a priority for us to keep the reserve open to users whilst the work was ongoing. 
“We know it’s the safest way for cyclists and pedestrians to move between Nelson city and Saxton, and we didn’t want to divert cyclists onto the busy and tight Waimea Road, or onto Main Road Stoke.” 
Of the 142 lights installed along the Railway Reserve during this project, seven are solar lights and five are bollards. 
The seven solar lights were chosen as the most cost-effective solution for lighting in the section between State Highway 6 and Quarantine Road due to the underground services in this stretch of the reserve.  
The remainder of the lights along the Railway Reserve are LED, and meet dark sky requirements and the NZTA Waka Kotahi standard for light spill and glare.  
The majority of these lights are on 6-metre poles. Along Jenkins Place, five 1m bollards were installed. These were chosen to further decrease potential light spill into neighbouring properties.  
Kate Malcom, from Nelson Sustainable Transport (NELSUST), undertook a petition for lights in 2020. 
“I remember, it was cold and dark, when a group of our volunteers intercepted cyclists on the Railway Reserve to collect signatures for the petition. 
“We heard stories of users who were essentially left blind if their own lights failed. 
“We are delighted that it’s now safer for cyclists and pedestrians, but also that the Railway Reserve has been recognised as an important arterial link for open-air commuters,” she says.  

Mayor's Message
Another step on recovery journey 
I hosted Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell on Monday in Nelson. The purpose of the visit was to finalise Government funding on both recovery and resilience work and to share our experiences with Government on how we can better manage the recovery from such emergencies in future.
 The August 2022 storm was the worst disaster to hit our city in 50 years. The previous Government’s initial decision to decline financial support for the recovery became untenable as hundreds of millions was being poured into Cyclone Gabrielle-affected communities. The $12.3 million we provisionally agreed last August had $6 million to build back better, $6 million to fund 50% of the cost of property buyouts and $300,000 for ongoing monitoring of the Tāhunanui Slump.
 This was conditional on Council funding the other 50% of the buyouts and approving the deal after consultation via our Long Term Plan process, which we did on 27 June. This funding agreement has now been signed and letters have been sent to property owners assessed as eligible for the voluntary buy-out scheme. This, 22 months after the event, will provide overdue certainty for these Nelsonians.
 I regret this has taken so long. I advocated a more streamlined approach. Councils have access to special powers during a civil emergency but not for the recovery phase. We could speed up the recovery for communities if Councils had access to fast-track processes for funding and consenting disaster recovery work.
 Council is also very focused on improving our resilience to future events. We are, through Plan Change 29, tightening the rules on where development can occur. We can never 100% guarantee the suitability of land for development, but we need to get smarter. We are partnering with EQC, GNS Science and geotechnical experts on research to improve our management of these risks.
 I also discussed with the Minister advancing the detailed agreement for the additional $9 million announced in Budget ’24 for improving flood resilience. This will enable Council to strengthen stop banks, flood intakes and stormwater systems in areas that failed in August 2022.
 This work is part of delivering on my top commitment to Nelson when I stood for Mayor just after the ’22 storm. I pledged to get our city fixed as quickly as possible, to build back better, to secure as much funding for this work from whomever was in Government and that I would work to improve our resilience to future events.
Mayor 
Nick Smith

Gifted bonsai tree rehomed in Miyazu Garden.
An estimated 80-year-old bonsai tree (Ponderosa Pine) gifted to Nelson City Council by the Nelson Bonsai Club has found a new home in Miyazu Garden. 
  The bonsai started its life at Jim Sharland's Nursery, which spanned New Street between 77 and 90 years ago. It was gifted to the Nelson Bonsai Club about 27 years ago, where it was carefully tended by the same two members of the club. A Scottish bonsai artist reshaped it into its current form when visiting Nelson for a bonsai conference in the early 2000’s.  
  There are now two bonsai trees in the Miyazu Garden, the first being Jim's Pine, a 59-year-old bonsai which overhangs Dragon Pond, that also started life at Jim Sharland's Nursery.  
  Throughout its long life, the bonsai has only been re-potted and moved a handful of times. Great care was taken to avoid disrupting the tree’s roots while it was moved, and it now resides beside the tranquil top pond.  

Nelson City Council’s Long Term Plan 2024 - 2034 adopted  
Following months of work to create a Long Term Plan that sets out a clear vision for Whakatū Nelson for the next 10 years, Council has adopted the Long Term Plan 2024-2034 (LTP) with elected members voting unanimously to support it. Council also approved the 2024/25 schedule of fees and charges.  
The adoption follows engagement with the community, where we received a record number of 1537 submissions through our LTP consultation process held in April and heard from 111 organisations and individuals who then took the opportunity to speak at the hearings in May. This high level of public engagement has helped to reshape and improve this plan so that it reflects the needs of our community while acknowledging the challenges that are in front of us.   
The title of this LTP ‘Beyond the storm’ Kei tua i te āwhā reflects not only the ongoing recovery from the August 2022 severe weather event but also the economic environment we are living in, faced with the highest inflation and interest rates in decades and increased costs for Council in areas we cannot control such as depreciation and insurance. 
 The LTP includes an 8.2% average rates increase in the first year, alongside a $300 Storm Recovery Charge. Council has prioritised keeping our rates rises as low as possible while maintaining core services, paying for the August 2022 storm recovery, and continuing to invest in the projects that will make the most difference to Nelson’s future. 
 “While the 2024/25 rates rise is lower than most other councils around the country, I’m very conscious that this average 8.2% increase comes at a time when households and businesses are already under huge financial pressure,” says Nelson Mayor Nick Smith.   
“The single biggest driver of the increase is the cost of infrastructure. Over the next decade, Council plans to spend $523 million on wastewater, drinking water, stormwater and flood protection infrastructure, and a further $303 million on roads and other transport infrastructure. We would be doing Nelson residents a disservice if we pulled back on these investments.  
 “The storm recovery charge is to cover the $87.2 million estimated cost to Council of the August 2022 storm, which includes the contribution of $26.3 million we have secured in support from Government, resulting in a net cost of $60.9 million. It is the cost of fixing the damage and building back better.”
The LTP contains key issues that elected members decided on, including the following. 
Buyout of Private Properties affected 
by slips  
Elected members agreed to accept the Central Government buy-out support offer, which will now be used to purchase up to 17 slip affected properties, and to apply amended eligibility buy-out principles.  
The principles now include residential properties that are not the primary residence of an owner as well as the primary residence of an owner.  
Percentage value payouts for primary residences will be to a maximum of 95% of valuation if insured and 80% if uninsured. All valuations will be taken from before the August 2022 weather event.  
Percentage value payouts for non-primary residences will be to a maximum of 95% of their valuation if insured and 80% if uninsured. This payout will be taken from remaining funds once all eligible primary residence properties are confirmed, and Council valuations obtained.  
If the potential payout to insured non-primary residence properties falls below 80% of valuation, Council can re-assess the application of the eligibility buy-out principles to ensure an equitable outcome.   
Council's approach to forestry  
Elected members agreed to the option to exit commercial forestry over time. Over 1000 of the submissions Council received commented on the issue with a strong majority in favour of Council’s proposal to exit commercial forestry over time and to instead grow a continuous canopy of mixed species. This will enable Council to take a holistic approach to management of its native and exotic forests and develop a long-term asset for the community with improved environmental, recreational and social outcomes, particularly on the city fringe. 
Marina CCO proposal 
Council has agreed to establish an Asset-Owning Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) for the Nelson Marina by 1 July 2025. This approach will set it up in a way to best deliver the Nelson Marina Masterplan, while maintaining 100% Council ownership of the CCO.  
The majority of the over 750 submissions that commented on this matter supported transitioning to either Council’s proposal of an Asset-Owning Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) or an Asset-Owning Council-Controlled Trading Organisation (CCTO). 
The Marina’s debt will be removed from Council’s balance sheet debt levels and any increased commercial returns from Marina activities will be reinvested in improvements to the Marina.    
Housing Reserve  
Elected members agreed to broaden the purpose of the Housing Reserve Fund to enable it to be used to provide enduring support to reduce housing vulnerability in line with the majority of approximately 800 submissions that commented on the issue. This decision supports Council’s desire that the Fund be used for assets and services that continue to provide support to the community over the long term.  
This change will assist Council to support and work with partners to provide innovative solutions for our vulnerable and highest need residents, in addition to continuing to support the delivery of social and affordable housing.      
All-weather sports turf  
Council decided not to proceed with the proposal to build a new all-weather sports turf and agreed instead to retain a programme of upgrading existing sports fields from the Long Term Plan 2021-2031. 
A focus on improved lighting and drainage will provide greater accessibility and inclusivity benefits and lower environmental impacts than an all-weather turf. Submissions to this key issue were divided with just over half of the almost 900 submitters that provided feedback opposing the all-weather turf proposal.  
Facilities at Tāhunanui Beach for Nelson Surf Life Saving Club  
Council agreed to support construction of a new facility for the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club and upgrade the changing facilities at the sports ground in line with the majority of the almost 1000 submissions that commented.  
Council decided to cap its capital funding contribution to the new lifesaving facility at either $1.65 million or 50% of the total capital costs (whichever is the lesser amount) with the rest of costs to be covered by the club.      
Arts Hub  
Council has agreed to purchase an existing building to establish an arts hub in the city centre to support the arts sector and the implementation of He Tātai Whetū, Whakatū Nelson’s Arts and Creativity Strategy. 
The majority of approximately 900 submissions commenting on the issue supported the initiative and an amendment during Council deliberations means that the purchase can take place sooner than planned.   
Council’s decision enables the arts hub to be delivered two years earlier than planned. It supports the arts sector by further activating arts in the city centre and using the hub to house the new arts development agency to deliver better outcomes for the sector. 
Fees and charges  
For a full list of current fees and charges visit the Nelson City Council website nelson.govt.nz/services/fees-and-charges 
Council is seeking your feedback on the future of the crematorium services at Wakupuaka Cemetery.  
For more information and to make a submission, visit shape.nelson.govt.nz/planned-crematorium-fees-and-charges  
There will be an increase of 17.7% for solid waste charges at the Nelson Waste Recovery Centre. This has been brought in to match the increase set by the Nelson Tasman Regional Landfill Business Unit (NTRLBU).  
 There will also be some changes to Library fees. Visit the library website for full details nelsonpubliclibraries.co.nz 
The full Long Term Plan document will be available by the end of July, visit nelson.govt.nz for more information

Plan Change 29 – next steps 
Nelson City Council has reviewed all submissions and further submissions received on the proposed plan change 29 and as a result, has recommended changes for the hearing panel to consider. 
Section 42A + changes:  Six reports written by a combination of Council officers and consultants have been prepared under the provisions of section 42A of the RMA. These reports, which are publicly available online, have been given to the hearings panel for review. 
In these reports the reporting officer evaluates the issues raised in submissions and makes recommendations for changes to the hearings panel. Each hearing topic has an associated Officer’s s42A report: 
The Overview & Strategic Report provides an overview of Plan Change 29 and sets out the background and relevant statutory documents. It addresses strategic issues identified in submissions including general opposition to and general support for PC29, long-term growth and demand projections, integrating land-use decisions with infrastructure planning, proposed zoning and building height strategy. 
The City Centre, Commercial & Infrastructure Report covers recommended amendments to the Inner-City Zone and Suburban Commercial Zone issues, noise provisions, acoustic insulation of buildings and the proposed State Highway noise overlay. It also includes the proposed rezoning of the St Vincent Street/Vanguard Street Industrial Zone and infrastructure related amendments, including recommended changes to the services overlay and development near transmission lines and the national grid. 
The Residential & Subdivision Report includes recommended changes to the number of residential zones, proposed amendments to building heights, daylight controls and other built-form standards, on-site amenity and streetscape standards, accessible design provisions for new residential units, notification of affected parties, which activities should be permitted, the activity status of resource consents, design assessments and recommended amendments to the subdivision standards of the proposed residential zones. 
The Transport and Papakāinga Report includes recommended targeted amendments to the transport provisions to align with national policy and Council strategy. Minor amendments are also recommended to the new objectives, policies and rules for papakāinga in the General, Medium and High-Density Residential Zones, and in the Inner City Suburban and Suburban Commercial Zones. 
The Heritage and Churchill Viewshaft Report addresses key issues including the scope of changes in relation to heritage, the appropriateness of the methodology/assessment criteria for heritage items, immediate legal effect of the proposed provisions, the heritage schedule, heritage precincts – extents and underlying zoning, heritage provisions, and the removal of the Church Hill viewshaft. 
The Natural Hazards report outlines key amendments recommended including amending the naming of the Slope Instability Overlays, deleting part of the Fault Deformation Overlay at Marsden Valley and reducing its width at Bayview Road, deleting the High Flood Hazard Overlay and Flood Hazard Overlay at 23 and 19 Todd Bush Road respectively, deleting the High Flood Hazard and Flood Hazard Overlays at 100 Tasman Street, deleting and amending some of the Slope Instability Area 3 rules, and recommends a possible streamlined process under a controlled activity framework for sites with existing recent geotechnical assessments. 
The key changes that are being recommended are: 
Removing the proposed High Density Residential Zone (which allowed 6 storey buildings), to be replaced with the Medium Density Residential Zone in most places (which allows 3 storey buildings), and the General Residential Zone in some areas like the Tāhunanui Hills and Atawhai.  
Enabling High Density Developments on large sites in areas that have high accessibility to the City Centre and Stoke through a specific resource consent process. 
Changing the daylight controls for the Medium Density Residential Zone to support higher levels of sunlight access and privacy for neighbouring properties. 
Updating the flood modelling and overlays based on the information provided in submissions. 
Changes to the Slope Instability and Fault Hazard modelling and overlays based on the information provided in submissions. 
Changes to the Heritage buildings list and rules. 
Changes to the rules relating to noise insulation for buildings near the state highway.
The role of the hearing panel
A hearing is held to allow submissions to be heard in public, by a hearing panel, before any decision is made. 
Council has appointed independent hearing commissioners Greg Hill (Chairperson), Michael Parsonson, Deputy Mayor Rohan O’Neill-Stevens and Councillor Trudie Brand (the latter two sitting as Commissioners). Their role is to hear submissions and evidence on Plan Change 29 and as the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) permits limited delegation of council decision-making, the panel been delegated authority to make the decision about changes to the proposed plan change.  
The RMA does not permit councils to delegate the final approval of plan changes, this remains the responsibility of the Council.  
Hearing panel + process
The Officer’s s42A reports are just one part of the evidence the hearing panel will consider in making its decision, alongside information provided by submitters and evidence from their experts. All information and evidence provided is considered equally by the panel. 
The hearing panel will read everything in advance of the hearing and use the hearing time predominantly for asking questions. This will help speed up the hearing process. Submitters who intend to call expert witnesses must make the written evidence of those experts available before the hearing. 
At the hearing itself, submitters who do not have experts can bring along additional information to support their original submission; this does not have to be made available before the hearing. 
Friend of Submitters Emily Bayliss is available free of charge to submitters to provide advice on preparing for the hearing and presenting to the panel.  
The hearing for Plan Change 29 will commence on Monday 26 August 2024. Details for this hearing will be updated on the Shape Nelson page when available. 
For more information about the hearing process, Friend of the submitter services or to read the Officer’s s42A reports please visit: shape.nelson.govt.nz/hearing-portal-plan-change-29

Lower Days Track reopened
Work to upgrade the stormwater network on the lower section of Days Track from Grenville Terrace down to Rocks Road is now complete.
The project was brought forward following the August 2022 severe weather, which had cause significant damage to the track.
Upgraded culverts and a wider drain on the side of the track have been installed which will better control stormwater runoff down the hillside in future heavy rains.
The upper portions of Days Track from Princes Drive to Grenville Terrace remain closed.

Lights up! Lighting upgrade at Trafalgar Centre opens door to more sporting events
Nelson City Council is upgrading the lights inside the main arena at the Trafalgar Centre, to attract more high-level sports and wants to offer the existing lights to the community.
“The existing lights were no longer adequate for new technology such as slow-motion replays for some top-level TV broadcasts. Some sporting codes had to rent lights that were up to standard for televised matches at a cost of $15,000 per game,” says Nelson Mayor Nick Smith. 
“Upgrading the lights is great news for the Nelson Giants basketball team. The Giants have sold out every home match two years in a row at the stadium, and better lighting will only improve the experience for their die-hard fans.”
Trafalgar Centre Manager Mark Mekalick, of CLM, says about 65% of the lights in the main arena were last upgraded in 2015.
“There are patches of the centre that are brighter than others. Nearly 10 years later, technology, especially in terms of slow-motion replays, has evolved and these lights were no longer fit for purpose.”
The upgrade started in June when 20 new broadcast lights were installed.  In August, a further 96 lights will be replaced. These replacement lights are higher spec and will provide more illumination than the original house lights. 
“The new lighting system will reach broadcasting standards and remove a barrier to bringing large sporting events to our venue. Now that the lights are in, we look forward to working with regional and national-level sporting organisations to help attract more high-quality sports events to Nelson.”
The Nelson Giants say they are looking forward to playing under the new lights. 
“The upgraded lighting system at the Trafalgar Centre will be a fantastic addition for our 10 home games in 2025 and beyond,” says General Manager and Head Coach Mike Fitchett.
“They allow us to present a much-improved experience for both the fans in the crowd, and our loyal fans watching on TV. The improvements also bring the lighting up to spec to host international matches in the future, so we may be able to attract the Tall Blacks back to Nelson. We haven’t seen them play locally since 2000.”
While the existing lights are no longer fit for purpose at the Trafalgar Centre, the majority still have life in them. Rather than sending them to landfill or dismantling them, Council would like to gift them to the Nelson community. 
“We’re looking for a club, school or other organisation that could use them,” Mayor Nick says. “It would be great if they went to a new home.”
Council has created a page on Shape Nelson where groups can apply to re-purpose the lights.  
Electrical contractor GRE Services Company Director Josh Roberts says his team will inspect the lights once they have been removed to determine how many can be reused.
Conversations with sporting codes for 2025 have already begun. 
“The replacement lights, costing $152,000, will bring more sport to Nelson.” says Mayor Nick."
shape.nelson.govt.nz

Sunday Hole boardwalk opens
Walkers and cyclists have improved access to the beautiful Maitai Valley with the completion of a technically challenging 66 metre-long boardwalk along the shared pathway at Sunday Hole.
The business case for an upgrade of the Maitai shared pathway at Sunday Hole was completed in February 2022. However, all plans were put on hold following the August 2022 weather event.
After the weather event, this project was no longer an upgrade project only. The work schedule now also included repairs to the path at both ends of the boardwalk and the replacement of a culvert, which was washed away during the storm.
Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says it made sense to extend the scope of the project to include repairs of the storm damage but the original reason for the upgrade remained.
“This project is part of better connecting Nelsonians to the Maitai River and Valley. We have spent millions building a wide, shared pathway along the Maitai River, but this short section was a bottleneck and down to just 1m wide. The safety concerns were made worse by the growth in popularity of mountain biking with some older pedestrians now not using it as they felt unsafe. The boardwalk doubles the width so mountain bikers and walkers can both feel safe.” 
Nelson Mountain Bike Club Manager Mel Barker is thrilled the upgrade has been completed.
“The Nelson Mountain Bike Club is rapt to hear that the upgrades to the Sunday Hole section of the Maitai Shared Pathway have been completed. This section of trail provides a key link between our mountain bike trails in the Maitai Valley and the City Centre. There will be many locals happy to hear it is open again.”
Contractors encountered several challenges with this project, which involved matching a fixed structure to the environment.
“It’s not like laying LEGO pieces together,” explains Nelson City Council Group Manager Community Services Andrew White.
The existing trail and cliff face both presented challenges. Contractors would lay a small section then survey the next, carefully considering the cliff face, the direction of the existing trail and potential hazards for bike tyres, feet and handlebars.
“The cliff face is jagged. The contractors would carefully cut the boardwalk panels to match the contour of the wall. If the panels weren’t fully aligned with the cliff face, then it would leave gaps where feet or tyres could get caught,” White says.
Due to the location of the boardwalk, the design allows for the Maitai River to flood again. The wire balustrade has been designed to break away during a flood. This will relieve pressure on the balustrade and maintain the integrity of the structure while also saving it from washing downstream in a severe flood.
The cost of the project, including the boardwalk and repairs to the storm damage was $475,000, of which $204,000 was funded by a grant from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

Councillor's Comment
Nelson is proud of its four longstanding Sister City relationships: Miyazu in Japan (since 1976), Huangshi (1995) and Yangjiang (2014) in China, and Eureka in the USA (2004). Fostering international connections like these is important for our community as they benefit business, tourism, cultural exchanges, education, sports and trade. By developing and growing these strong ties with our sister cities, Nelson attracts international investment, expanding our local economy and creating jobs. Tourism benefits our community by supporting local retailers and accommodation providers as well as the wider economy.
Nelson, known for its vibrant community, stunning scenery and cultural life, has a lot to offer our international partners. Nelson City Council frequently receives requests for new partnerships or events from many diverse international groups, which enhance Nelson’s international ties.
Typically, Nelson City Council appoints an external volunteer as the Sister City Coordinator each term. However, due to changing circumstances, the current coordinator proposes making this role an internal appointment to ensure the most efficient coordination with Council staff and Sister City organisations. This proposal is due to be discussed at the August Council meeting. If agreed, a Councillor will be appointed to lead the Sister City partnerships and international relationships.
Recently, I took part in the New Zealand China Friendship Society conference in Nelson, which was well attended by friendship society members and key Chinese officials. The conference highlighted how ongoing communication can promote the potential for greater economic and educational opportunities. Later this year, a small group led by the Mayor will visit our Chinese Sister Cities. Our Japanese Sister City, Miyazu, is preparing for a student exchange as we approach the 50th anniversary of this partnership. This Sister City relationship is one of the longest in New Zealand and one that all Nelsonians can see the results of every time they visit the fabulous Miyazu Gardens.
Our relationship with the American Sister City of Eureka is less robust. A community group is seeking opinions on whether to maintain this partnership or explore another North American Sister City relationship and will provide advice on a possible way forward to Council.
International relationships and Sister City partnerships benefit our community by boosting the economy, promoting diplomacy, and fostering a more prosperous, inclusive, and globally connected Nelson.

Planned Crematorium Fees and Charges
Nelson City Council is seeking your feedback on the future of the crematorium services at Wakupuaka Cemetery.
In its Long Term Plan 2024-2034 (LTP) Consultation Document, Council proposed to divest Council’s crematorium service at Wakapuaka Cemetery in Atawhai from 2025/26. However, at its meeting held on 23 May 2024 council decided to instead remove the rates contribution to the cremation services and instead charge the full cost of cremation to the user.
Meaning that if the crematorium continues in operation, council will recover the full cost of providing and operating the crematorium from fees and charges instead of from rates from 1 August 2024.
In five years time, Council plans to replace its two aging diesel powered cremators with an electric cremator at a cost of approximately $1 million.
The cost of this will also be recovered through fees and charges over a period of 20 years following that purchase.
Following your feedback, Council will either proceed with its plan to change how you pay for Nelson City Council cremation services, or, proceed with its original proposal to exit providing and operating a crematorium at Wakapuaka Cemetery.
For more information and to make a submission, visit: shape.nelson.govt.nz/planned-crematorium-fees-and-charges

Amendment to the Saxton Field Reserve Management Plan adopted
Following public consultation, the Nelson and Tasman councils approved an amendment to the Saxton Field Reserve Management Plan which allows for alcohol advertising for international cricket events at the Oval, where there are existing sponsorship arrangements that require alcohol advertising.
The changes were publicly notified and supported by 123 submissions in favour to 27 in opposition. The vote was passed 9 July 16-5 in favour of the change.
As exposure to alcohol advertising at sporting events has effects and impacts wider than the influence of behaviour at the venue, the future aspiration is to phase out all alcohol advertising at Saxton Field.
The policy on advertising alcohol at Saxton Field will be reconsidered at the next review of the Reserve Management Plan.

Meetings
Civil Defence Emergency Management Group - Emergency Operations Centre, 28 Oxford Street, Richmond
9am	23 Jul
Joint Committee of Tasman District and Nelson City Councils
10.30am	23 Jul
Activities in Public Places Consultation Panel - to hear submissions (if required)
1pm and 9am	24 and 25 Jul
Hearing Panel
9am	26 Ju

Conewatch: Ongoing Projects
Maitai Dam Aeration 
Dates: May – Nov 2024 
Location: Maitai Dam 
Benefit: Improve water quality 
Tahuna Hills Stormwater Upgrade – Catchment 3 
Dates: Jan to Jul 24 
Location: Grenville Terrace, Days Track and Moncrief Ave 
Benefit: Stormwater upgrade and geotechnical risk mitigation  
Saxton Creek Upgrade Stage 4 
Dates: Planting of Saxton Field Culvert Headwall Area Pushed out to start Aug 2024 
Location: Main Rd, Stoke 
Benefit: Flood mitigation 
NRSBU Rising Main Duplication Section 5 – 7
Dates: Section 5 in businesses property started in May 2024
Location: Kotua place stoke / businesses property 
Benefit: Improve network capacity and resilience
Slip 2 – 131/233 Brook Street Slip Remediation
Dates: Mar – Jul 2024
Location: Brook Street at Coppermine Trail start near Blick Terrace
Benefit: Property protection  
41 Halifax Street – Public Car Parking
Dates: Apr – Jul 2024
Location: 41 Halifax Street 
Benefit: Public Car Parking 
Maitai Road Slip Repairs 
Dates: Mar 2024 – Sep 2024 
Location: Maitai Road at Nile Street Intersection 
Benefit: Repair edge of road after August 2022 Event 
Trafalgar Centre Lighting Upgrade 	Dates: 4 – 12 Jun + Aug 2024 
Location: The Trafalgar Centre 
Benefit: Lighting upgrade for televised sporting events to be held in Nelson without lighting hire being required 
Nayland Road Watermain Upgrade
Dates: 27 May - Aug 2024
Location: Nayland Road – 137 Aldinga Avenue to Songer Street 
Benefit: Watermain Renewal 
Cawthron Crescent Stormwater Upgrade 
Dates: May to Jul 2024 
Location: Cawthron Crescent, Properties #13 to 29
Benefit: Improve stormwater management during rainfall events 
Intersection Safety Improvement 
Dates: Mid Jul 2024 
Location: St Vincent-Toi Toi Intersection 
Benefit: Safety Improvement 
NZTA- Stage 2 Bus Shelters 
Dates: 12 Jul 2024
Location: Nayland Road, Westbrook Tce & Muritai Street 
Benefit: Enhance Patron safety & experience 
Slip 12 – 29 Allan Street Slip Remediation
Dates: 15 Jul 24 
Location: Allan Street
Benefit: Property Protection
Nelson North Wastewater Treatment Plant Wetlands Planting
Dates: Planting Planned for 8 Jul 2024
Location: Land accessible to the public alongside the NWWTP
Benefit: Improvement to cultural health and ecology
Slip 14 – 96 Tukuka St Slip Remediation
Dates: Jul – Aug 2024 
Location: Tukuka Street, Blampied Place 
Benefit: Property protection

IT's on... at a Council venue near you
Saxton Field
Nelson Hockey Junior Program II – Thursday 16 May – Thursday 20 June, 3:45pm – 6:30pm
Trafalgar Centre
South Island Show Offs Cheerleading Championships – Sunday 28 July, 9am – 5:30pm
Founders Heritage Park
Hours: 10am – 4:30pm Daily
Illuminate Light & Sound Experience – Friday 2 - Sunday 4 August and Friday 9 – Sunday 11 August, 5:45pm – 9:30pm
Melrose House
Hours: Monday: 9am – 3pm, Tuesday to Sunday: 9am – 4pm, closed public holidays
Isel House and Park
Winter Hours: Closed from 1 May – 30 September
Nelson Public Libraries:
Elma Turner Library
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9:30am – 6pm
Wednesday: 10am – 6pm
Saturday: 10am – 4pm
Sunday: 1pm – 4pm
Small Time – Wednesdays, 10:30am – 11am
Avatar the Last Airbender Celebration – Wednesday 17 July, 11am – 12:30pm
DIY Lip Balms for Teens – Thursday 18 July, 11am – 12pm
Ruru the Therapy Dog – Saturday 27 July and Saturday 10 August, 1pm – 2pm
Kōrero te reo Māori – Saturday 27 July and Saturday 10 August, 10am – 11am
Live Music Series: Polly and the Minstrel – Sunday 28 July, 2pm
Teen Takeover – Wednesday 31 July, 3:30pm – 5pm
Emma Stevens – My Six Years Living with the Yup’ik/Cup’ik Eskimo People – Sunday 4 August, 2pm – 3:30pm
Nightingale Library Memorial 
Hours: Monday – Friday: 12pm – 4pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 1pm – 4pm
Nellie Knitters – 24 & 29 July and 5 & 14 August, 1pm – 4pm
Spiritual Keys to Overcoming Fear – Sunday 28 July, 3pm – 4:15pm
Stoke Library
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9:30am – 5:30pm
Wednesday: 10:00am – 5:30pm
Saturday: 10am – 1pm
Sunday: Closed
Odie the Therapy Dog – Wednesdays, 3:15pm – 4:15pm
Bubs, Bubbles & Boogie – Friday 19 July, 10:30am
Small Time – Fridays from 26 July, 10:30am – 11am
Nelson Jazz Club Night and Jam Session - Thursday 1 August, 7pm – 9:30pm
Museums and Galleries:
Broadgreen House and Samuels Rose Gardens
Winter hours 1 May to 30 September: 12pm – 3pm Daily 
Fatal Fashion: Dangerous Dress and Injurious Attire – Wednesday 3 April – Sunday 1 December, 12pm – 3pm
The Suter Art Gallery & Theatre
Hours: 9:30am – 4:30pm Daily
Exhibition: Seven – Monday 8 – Sunday 28 July, during opening hours
New Zealand Youth Symponic Winds – Friday 19 July, 11:30am
Nelson Decorative and Fine Art Society Illustrated Lecture: Behind the Photograph by Charlie Waite – Wednesday 31 July, 6:30pm
Refinery ArtSpace 
Hours: Monday – Friday from 10am – 5pm, Saturday from 10am – 2pm
Exhibition: Alice Snow’s Cabinet of Unnatural Curiosities – Monday 15 July – Saturday 10 August, during opening hours
Exhibition: Where are You From – Monday 15 July – Saturday 10 August, during opening hours
Exhibition: Te Ataarangi | Maramataka Matariki – Monday 15 July – Saturday 10 August, during opening hours
Nelson Provincial Museum 
Hours: Weekdays from 10am – 5pm, Weekends & Public Holidays from 10am – 4:30p