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Opening introductions and updates:
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Brent Barrett (Programme Manager, Whaka-Ora
Healthy Harbour) introduced himself to the meeting and discussed his work
with Whaka-Ora.
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Jaimee Grant provided updates to members. Of
note, was that the fish habitat funding available from the Department of
Conservation closes 19 April and recommended that members share amongst their
networks.
Main discussion – Zone Committee
review
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A discussion was facilitated to address the
questions outlined in the attached slide presentation. As there is a
review of the wider Zone Committee structure, function and resourcing
underway, the discussion was to get Banks Peninsula members feedback.
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Members contributed to a list of locally lead
freshwater activities and groups within Banks Peninsula. Due to the large
volume of groups listed, with varying functions, strengths and weaknesses,
members decided it’s more useful to focus on their outcomes. The Banks
Peninsula Conversation Trust was noted as a good group to look at, as
it’s a huge organisation that tends to lead the way for smaller
organisations in the area.
Is there any type of mahi that needs
more focus?
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Consistency of funding was mentioned in that
often groups are not aware of what funding is available, and that the members
could work on directing people to available funding opportunities.
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Main avenue for advocacy are the quarterly
reporting to the Christchurch City Council, and annual reporting to
Environment Canterbury. This can be difficult with election cycles.
Members feel that they can make suggestions to the Councils but do not have
much influence.
What support do you think is needed?
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Public engagement a big opportunity as the
public are not aware of the work and advocacy that the Zone Committees do.
Broader engagement is needed. Especially with large rate rises coming,
it’s good for the community to understand where their money goes. The
Zone Committees are a safe middle ground between Council’s and the
community.
Engagement with mana whenua
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Runanga representatives noted that due to
capacity they have to be strategic in their focus. Many external
groups/academics approach Runanga with projects and need to understand that
it’s a reciprocal relationship. A recent climate mitigation hui was
mentioned and how this was a good way to engage on a bulk level.
Final
thoughts: What would you like to see come from the review?
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Working
together and cross-functionality with the other Zone Committees.
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Shoring
up the relevance of this group.
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Find
funders or investors and bring them to the table?
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Connections
a common theme.
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More
engagement from Councils.
A
survey for the Zone Committee review will be distributed to members shortly.
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