Agenda of Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee

Committee Members

Greater Christchurch Partnership Independent Chair

Jim Palmer

Mana Whenua

Dr Te Maire Tau, Jane Huria and Gail Gordon

Christchurch City Council

Mayor Phil Mauger, Councillors Victoria Henstock and Sara Templeton

Environment Canterbury

Chair Peter Scott, Councillors Grant Edge and Vicky Southworth

Selwyn District Council

Mayor Sam Broughton, Councillors Nicole Reid and Lydia Gliddon

Waimakariri District Council

Mayor Dan Gordon, Deputy Mayor Neville Atkinson and Councillor Niki Mealings

Health

Dr Anna Stevenson

Waka Kotahi (New Zealand Transport Agency - Non-Voting Member)

James Caygill

Director, Greater Christchurch Partnership

Tracy Tierney

Ph 941 6993

Committee Adviser

David Corlett

ph 941 5421

1. TERMS OF REFERENCE Ngā Ārahina Mahinga

1.1. The role of the Committee is to:

i. Foster and facilitate a collaborative approach between the Partners to address strategic challenges and opportunities for Greater Christchurch.

ii. Show clear, decisive and visible collaborative strategic leadership amongst the Partners, to wider stakeholders, agencies and central government and to communities across Greater Christchurch.

iii. Enable Partners to better understand individual perspectives and identify shared objectives and areas of alignment.

iv. Assist information sharing, efficient and effective working, and provide a stronger voice when advocating to others.

v. Establish, and periodically review, an agreed strategic framework to support a collective approach to improving intergenerational wellbeing in Greater Christchurch through addressing strategic challenges and opportunities.

vi. Oversee implementation of strategies and plans endorsed by the Committee and ratified at individual Partner governance meetings, including through the adoption and delivery of an annual joint work programme.

vii. Ensure the Partnership proactively engages with other related partnerships, agencies and organisations critical to the achievement of its strategic functions.

1.2. The functions of the Committee are to:

i. Establish, and periodically review, an agreed strategic framework to support a collective approach to improving intergenerational wellbeing in Greater Christchurch.

ii. As required, develop new and review existing strategies and plans to enable Partners to work more collaboratively with each other and to provide greater clarity and certainty to stakeholders and the community. Existing strategies and plans endorsed by the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee or endorsed by the UDSIC and inherited by this Committee are published on the Partnership’s website.

iii. Recommend to Partners for ratification at individual partner governance meetings any new or revised strategies and plans.

iv. Adopt and monitor the delivery of an annual joint work programme to deliver on strategic goals and actions outlined in adopted strategies and plans.

v. Undertake reporting on the delivery of adopted strategies and plans, including in relation to an agreed strategic outcomes framework.

vi. Identify and manage risks associated with implementing adopted strategies and plans.

vii. Establish and maintain effective dialogue and relationships (through meetings, forums and other communications) with other related partnerships, agencies and organisations to the support the role of the Committee, including but not limited to:

a. Waka Toa Ora (Healthy Greater Christchurch)

b. Canterbury Mayoral Forum

c. Tertiary institutions and educational partnerships

d. Strategic infrastructure providers

e. Government departments

viii. Undertake wider engagement and consultation as necessary, including where appropriate seeking submissions and holding hearings, to assist the development of any strategies and plans.

ix. Advocate to central government or their agencies or other bodies on issues of concern to the Partnership, including through the preparation of submissions (in liaison with the Canterbury Mayoral Forum as necessary).

x. For the avoidance of doubt, the Committee’s strategic transport functions include:

a. Consider key strategic transport issues, national policies and public transport associated collaborative business cases.

b. Develop the Greater Christchurch component of the Regional Public Transport Plan and recommend to the Canterbury Regional Council for approval, when required.

c. Monitor the delivery of the strategic public transport work programme in Greater Christchurch.

1.3. In undertaking its role and performing its functions the Committee will consider seeking the advice of the Chief Executives Advisory Group.

2. QUORUM AND Conduct of meetings

1.1. The quorum at a meeting of the Committee consists of the majority of the voting members.

1.2. Other than as noted in this Agreement, the standing orders of the administering Council at the time, shall apply.

1.3. Voting shall be on the basis of the majority present at the meeting, with no alternates or proxies.

1.4. For the purpose of clause 6.2, the Independent Chairperson:

i. has a deliberative vote; and

ii. in the case of equality of votes, does not have a casting vote (and therefore the act or question is defeated and the status quo is preserved).

3. MEETING FREQUENCY

3.1. Notification of meetings and the publication of agendas and reports shall be conducted in accordance with the requirements of Part 7 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987.

3.2. The Committee shall meet monthly, or as necessary and determined by the Independent Chair in liaison with the Committee.

3.3. The Committee welcomes external speakers by deputation however the right to speak at meetings must be in accordance with the adopted public deputation guidelines of the Committee.

4. DELEGATIONS

4.1. Establishing, and where necessary, amending, protocols and processes to support the effective functioning of the Committee, including but not limited to those relating to the resolution of conflicting views, communications and public deputations.

4.2. Preparing communication and engagement material and publishing reports relevant to the functions of the Committee.

4.3. Commissioning and publishing reports relevant to the functions of the Committee.

4.4. Undertaking engagement and consultation exercises in support of the terms of reference and functions of the Committee.

4.5. Selecting an Independent Chair and Deputy Chair in accordance with any process agreed by the Committee and the requirements of the LGA 2002.

4.6. Making submissions, as appropriate, on Government proposals and other initiatives relevant to the role of the Committee.

4.7. Appointing, where necessary, up to two additional non-voting observers to the Committee.

5. FINANCIAL DELEGATIONS

5.1. The Committee can make financial decisions within an agreed budget envelope and as long as the decision does not trigger any change to the statutory plans prepared under the LGA 2002, the RMA 1991, or the LTMA 2003.

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Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee

Open Minutes

Date: Friday 16 February 2024

Time: 9 am

Venue: Council Chamber, Environment Canterbury,
200 Tuam Street, Christchurch

Present

Chairperson

Members

Jim Palmer , Independent Chairperson

Councillor Victoria Henstock - Christchurch City Council - via audio/visual link

Councillor Sara Templeton , Christchurch City Council

Chair Peter Scott , Environment Canterbury

Councillor Grant Edge - Environment Canterbury

Councillor Vicky Southworth , Environment Canterbury

Councillor Lydia Gliddon , Selwyn District Council

Councillor Nicole Reid - Selwyn District Council

Mayor Sam Broughton – Selwyn District Council

Mayor Dan Gordon , Waimakariri District Council

Councillor Neville Atkinson ,Waimakariri District Council

Councillor Niki Mealings , Waimakariri District Council

(Non-Voting Member) James Caygill , Waka Kotahi (New Zealand Transport Agency)

Principal Advisor

Tracy Tierney

Programme Director Greater Christchurch Partnership

Tel: 941 6993

David Corlett

Democratic Services Advisor

941 5421

david.corlett@ccc.govt.nz

www.ccc.govt.nz

Karakia mō te Tīmatataka Opening Incantation: Given by all

Tūtawa mai i runga

Tūtawa mai i raro

Tūtawa mai i roto

Tūtawa mai i waho

Kia tau ai te mauri tū

te mauri ora ki te katoa

Hāumi e, hui e, taiki e

I summon from above

I summon from below

I summon from within

and the surrounding environment

The universal vitality and energy to infuse

And enrich all present

Unified, connected and blessed

1. Apologies Ngā Whakapāha

Committee Resolved GCPC/2024/00001

That the apologies received from Mayor Phil Mauger, Mayor Sam Broughton, Jane Huria, Gail Gordan, and Dr Te Maire Tau be accepted.

Councillor Niki Mealings/Councillor Lydia Gliddon Carried

Secretarial note: Although an apology Mayor Sam Broughton was able to attend the later part of meeting, arriving during the debate on Item 5.

2. Declarations of Interest Ngā Whakapuaki Aronga

Deputy Mayor Neville Atkinson and Councillor Niki Mealings noted that they are Commissioners on the review of the Waimakariri District Plan and will sit back on item 5.

3. Deputations by Appointment Ngā Huinga Whakaritenga

There were no deputations by appointment.

4. Confirmation of Previous Minutes Te Whakaāe o te hui o mua

Committee Resolved GCPC/2024/00002

That the minutes of the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee meeting held on Friday, 8 December 2023 be confirmed.

Councillor Vicky Southworth/Councillor Niki Mealings Carried

Councillor Templeton joined the meeting at 9.05am after the confirmation of the previous minutes.

Mayor Sam Broughton joined the meeting at 9.58am during the debate on item 5.

5. Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan
	Committee Comment 1. Staff spoke to their presentation (attached.) 2. Councillor Niki Mealings and Councillor Neville Atkinson abstained from voting on this item due to a potential conflict with their roles on the Waimakariri District Plan Hearing Panel. 3. During the discussion on this item various Committee members noted their appreciation and acknowledgement to all the staff and the Hearing Panel members who contributed to the collaborative process that had been followed in developing the Spatial Plan. Members also provided their strong support for its adoption. 4. Cr Templeton was interested to understand the rationale for use of the term “Broad’ in relation to Greenfield and Urban Sprawl. Staff provided advice that they used the definition and terminology reflected in the NPS-UD. 5. Cr Southwark sought clarity on the insertion of “quality” in relation to Opportunity 4. It was noted that this was inclusive and a minor grammatical change can be made to better reflect this in the final wording.
	Committee Resolved GCPC/2024/00003 Officer Recommendations accepted without change Part C That the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee: 1. Receive the Hearings Panel Recommendations Report for the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan dated 17 January 2024, included as Attachment A. 2. Endorse the final version of the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan, as recommended by the Hearings Panel in Attachment B, as the Spatial Plan for Greater Christchurch. 3. Recommends that the Canterbury Regional Council, Christchurch City Council, Selwyn District Council and Waimakariri District Council adopt: a. the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan as recommended by the Hearings Panel in Attachment B as the Spatial Plan for Greater Christchurch. b. the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan as recommended by the Hearings Panel Attachment B as the joint Future Development Strategy for Greater Christchurch for the purposes of meeting the obligation to produce a Future Development Strategy under 3.12 (1) of the National Policy Statement on Urban Development 2020. 4. Notes that Mana Whenua, Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi will convey the recommendations of the Hearings Panel in Attachment A and the details of the endorsed Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan as recommended by the Hearings Panel in Attachment B as the Spatial Plan for Greater Christchurch to their governance, in a manner that is appropriate within the context of their respective governance arrangements. 5. Approves the addition of the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan Foreword in Attachment C to be included in the final version of Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan. 6. Delegates authority to the Independent Chair of the Greater Christchurch Partnership to authorise any amendments of minor effect, or to correct minor errors, and make design edits to the final version of Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan. 7. Notes that partner Council governance adoption of the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan will occur over February – March 2024. 8. Acknowledge and thank the following Hearings Panel members for the considerable time and effort they have contributed as part of undertaking their role as Hearings Panel members: Stephen Daysh (Independent Chair); Robbie Brine (Waimakariri District Council); Grant Edge (Environment Canterbury); Gail Gordon (Mana Whenua); Victoria Henstock (Christchurch City Council); Nicole Reid (Selwyn District Council); and Kate Styles (Central Government Representative, Ministry of Housing & Urban Development). Mayor Dan Gordon/Chair Peter Scott Carried
	Attachments a Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee Staff Presentation February 2024

Councillor Henstock left the meeting at 10.03am after the vote on item 5 and did not return.

Karakia – Whakakapi Closing Incantation: All

Ka whakairia te tapu Restrictions are moved aside

Kia watea ai te ara So the pathway is clear

Kia tūruki whakataha ai To return to everyday activities

Kia tūruki whakataha ai

Hui e, tāiki e Enriched, unified and blesses

Meeting concluded at 10.12am.

CONFIRMED THIS <Enter date as 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd etc> DAY OF <Enter MONTH YYYY>

Jim Palmer

Chairperson

5. Greater Christchurch Partnership Work Programme
Reference Te Tohutoro:	24/1152750
Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:	Tracy Tierney, Director Greater Christchurch Partnership
Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:	Tracy Tierney, Director Greater Christchurch Partnership

1. Purpose of Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1 The purpose of this report is to seek formal ratification of the Greater Christchurch Partnership (GCP) work programme and strategic priorities for 2024/25 and confirm approval to amend the meeting frequency of the GCP Committee to quarterly. It also provides an update on the partnership work programme.

2. Staff Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee:

1. Ratifies the Greater Christchurch Partnership work programme and strategic priorities for 2024/2025 as outlined in Table 1 under 3.2.

2. Approve the change of meeting frequency to quarterly.

3. Notes the Greater Christchurch Partnership work programme update.

3. Work Programme Ratification

3.1 The Greater Christchurch Partnership Priorities Workshop was held with the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee (GCPC) on 19 April 2024. The purpose of this workshop was to discuss and consider the strategic priorities for 2024/25 and seek the committees view on further ways the GCP could be more effective and efficient.

3.2 At the meeting the secretariat provided an overview of the current work programme and proposed strategic priorities as shown below.

Table 1 - Work programme and strategic priorities for 2024/2025

Current work programme	Status
Monitoring & Reporting – Geater Christchurch Spatial Plan	In development
Joint Housing Action Plan	Phase one implementation on track
Kāinga Nohoanga Strategy	In development
GC2050	To be finalised
PT Futures	In progress
Mass Rapid Transit Detailed Business Case	Awaiting funding decision
Regional Public Transport Plan	On track for delivery by early-2025
Greater Christchurch Transport Plan	On track for delivery by early-2025
Strategic Priorities
Priority Development Areas	Focus for 2024-25
Economic Development Opportunities	Timing to be determined
Blue-Green Network Opportunities	Timing to be determined
Responding to City/Regional Deals	Awaiting government direction

3.3 The view from the GCPC was that the work programme and strategic priorities are supported with a strong focus on implementation and that we do not reinvent the wheel but look for the value-add where existing plans are insufficient or need to be better connected (e.g. blue-green network, economic development).

3.4 We are seeking the Committee to formally ratify the GCP work programme and strategic priorities for 2024/25 as noted above.

3.5 We will continue to provide an update on the progress with the work programme at future GCPC meetings and through the GCP newsletter.

4. Meeting Frequency

4.1 At the priorities workshop it was proposed that the scheduling of the meetings for both the GCPC and CEAG meetings move to a quarterly frequency. This will support efficiency of the partnership by allowing more time to focus on implementation rather than meeting preparation and will make best use of elected members time where key direction and decisions are required.

4.2 Feedback received by attendees indicated general support for the change.

4.3 In the current Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee – Memorandum of Agreement 2021 in section 8.1 it notes:

8.1 The Committee shall meet monthly, or as necessary and determined by the Independent Chair in liaison with the Committee.

4.4 It is within the Committees delegation noted in the GCPC terms of reference 4.1, to:

4.1. Establishing, and where necessary amending, protocols and processes to support the effective functioning of the Committee, including but not limited to those relating to the resolution of conflicting views, communications and public deputations.

4.5 As the decision to change meeting frequency is for the reason of increasing the effective function of the Committee and within the Committees delegations, it is recommended that the GCPC approve the change of frequency in line with MOA point 8.1.

4.6 Quarterly meetings of the Chief Executive Advisory Group (CEAG) and GCPC in 2025 will likely be held in the months of February, May, August, and November.

5. Work Programme Update

5.1 The GCP work programme update is provided for the Committee to review in Attachment 1. Some areas of note are further expanded below:

Priority Development Areas

5.2 An initial Priority Development Areas (PDAs) Establishment Workshop was held on Friday 21 June. It was attended by 29 partner staff including representatives from the Ministry of Education. The purpose of the workshop was to create a collective understanding of the PDAs and share initial thoughts on the key opportunities and challenges to achieving the desired outcomes.

5.3 This work will be advanced through the Senior Officials Group, drawing on the 2023 work and the information and outcomes from 21 June workshop with the intention to:

· Identify and agree the current key opportunities, challenges and risks to the successful development of each PDA

· Define what impactful actions partners could take (and who would lead on these) to address the above.

5.4 We are aware of the recent government announcements made by Hon Chris Bishop regarding freeing up land for urban development and housing as part of the Going for Housing Growth (GfHG) programme and are working with our central government partners to consider the implications and opportunities this may provide to PDAs.

5.5 We will continue to work and engage collectively with all GCP partners as this work evolves. A further update on the progress with PDAs is anticipated to be provided at the October GCPC meeting.

Kāinga Nohoanga Strategy

5.6 Mana whenua have advised:

· Whitiora diverted resources to support the Spatial Plan. GCP expressed appreciation to Whitiora for prioritising the Spatial Plan over the Kāinga Nohoanga Strategy, knowing Ngāi Tūāhuriri were making this sacrifice for the Spatial Plan.

· Central Government reform – Keeps changing the landscape of local government, which the strategy must respond to. All Councils are facing this challenge currently.

· Additional people resource has been secured and an update on the delivery timeframe will be available August 2024.

5.7 Partners have offered their support and resource, if required, to assist mana whenua with the development of the Kāinga Nohoanga Strategy.

Greater Christchurch 2050

5.8 The Senior Officials Group (SOG) were provided a revised approach and framework for GC2050 for its consideration at their May meeting. SOG were largely supportive of the draft document and provided feedback that the secretariat is looking to incorporate and provide to the GCPC for endorsement at the October meeting. We are seeking to engage with mana whenua to ensure there is support for the approach.

Responding to City/Regional Deals

5.9 The secretariat maintains a watching brief for government direction on City/Regional deals. Further detail on the approach and framework is expected late August.

6. Secretariat Update

6.1 Lucy Baragwanath’s resigned from her position, her last day with the partnership was 3 July. Tracy Tierney has taken the lead on the Joint Housing Action Plan in the interim.

6.2 As the Partnerships approved work programme is more focused on project delivery than strategic planning over the next 1-2 years, the position description for the role was amended to a Strategic Projects Lead and changed to an 18 month fixed term position. This timeframe aligns with delivery of Phase 1 and 2 of the Joint Housing Action Plan and support for the Priority Development Area projects.

6.3 The recruitment process has now concluded. We were delighted that John Bartels accepted the role and commences on 5 August. John has extensive senior local government experience leading and contributing to significant urban development and transport projects on behalf of the City of Port Phillip, Victoria, Australia. John recently relocated to New Zealand to be closer to family.

7. GCP Financial Update

7.1 At year end to 30 June 2024 the operating budget for the secretariat had a modest surplus of $82K as shown in Table 2.

Table 2 – Secretariat Operating Budget Year End Financial Results

Expense	Approved Budget FY 2023/24	Actuals FY 2023/24
Operating Costs -Staff costs & independent chair -Mana whenua Advisory -Administration (printing, catering, adhoc) -Advice & Communications -CCC Overhead (accommodation, IT, support)	610,000 100,000 10,000 70,000 50,000	507,000 100,000 8,000 45,000 65,000
Total	840,000	725,000
Surplus		115,000
Less Joint Housing Action Plan funding carry forward		33,000
Surplus		82,000

7.2 The secretariat operating budget for the 2024/25 year remains the same as the 2023/24 year at $840,000.

7.3 Regarding the surplus, the Chief Executive Advisory Group (CEAG) have approved the carry forward of the full surplus and will review again at the end of the current financial year.

7.4 Project balances as at 30 June 2024 and project budgets for the 2024/25 year are listed in Table 3. CEAG approved the consolidation of the Greater Christchurch 2050, Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan and project leadership balances into a single Programme Delivery budget item. Expenditure from these funds can only be committed with approval from the Senior Officials Group.

Table 3 – Project Funding Balances

Project Balances as at 30/6/24	Programme Delivery	485,956
	Kāinga Nohoanga Strategy	6,522
	Joint Housing Action Plan Development	57,500
Project Budget contribution for 24/25 year	Programme Delivery	180,000
Project Budget contribution for 24/25 year	Engagement & Consultation	80,000

7.5 Once project plans for the Phase 2 of the Joint Housing Action Plan and the Priority Development Areas are drafted alongside other projects i.e. monitoring and reporting, a programme budget will be developed aligned to available funding.

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.	Title	Reference	Page
a ⇩	Work Programme Summary	24/1267962	20

6. Development of the Greater Christchurch chapters for the Canterbury Regional Public Transport Plan
Reference Te Tohutoro:	24/1144076
Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:	Sonia Pollard and Stewart Gibbon, Environment Canterbury
Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:	Tracy Tierney, Director Greater Christchurch Partnership

1. Purpose of Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1 The purpose of this report is to:

· Present the draft of the refreshed Canterbury Regional Public Transport Plan 2025-2035 (RPTP) to the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee (GCPC) for endorsement.

· Confirm the Canterbury Regional Public Transport Plan hearing panel members and adopt the terms of Reference for the Greater Christchurch RPTP Panel.

2. Staff Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee:

1. Endorse the attached Draft Canterbury Regional Public Transport Plan 2025-2035 document to Environment Canterbury to enable the Draft Plan to be notified to the public and the special consultation process to begin.

2. Reconfirm or nominate a replacement member of the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee to form part of the RPTP Hearings Panel as required.

a. The Waimakariri District Council representative will be either Mayor Dan Gordon or ……………….

b. The Selwyn District Council representative will be either Mayor Sam Broughton or …………………

c. The Christchurch City Council representative will be either Councillor Sara Templeton or …………

d. The Environment Canterbury representative will be either Councillor Vicky Southworth or ……….

3. Adopts the terms of Reference for the Greater Christchurch RPTP Panel noting any amendment to the panel members will be amended in the final version.

3. Context/Background Te Horopaki

Background

3.1 All regions are required to have a Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) under the Land Transport Management Act (LTMA). LTMA section 117 outlines the purpose of the RPTP.

3.2 In accordance with s119(1), the preparation and adoption of the RPTP is the responsibility of the Regional Council.

3.3 The LTMA (s119(4)) expressly prohibits delegation of the responsibility for adopting, varying, or renewing a RPTP. However, the Greater Christchurch Partnership has been delegated responsibility to develop the Greater Christchurch component of the Regional Public Transport Plan and recommending approval through the Canterbury Regional Council.

3.4 The GCPC strategic transport functions include:

· Considering key strategic transport issues, national policies and public transport associated collaborative business cases.

· Developing the Greater Christchurch component of the Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) and recommend to the Canterbury Regional Council for approval, when required.

· Monitoring the delivery of the strategic public transport work programme in Greater Christchurch

3.5 Since the publication of Canterbury’s existing Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) in 2018, there have been significant changes to Greater Christchurch and Timaru’s public transport network that have required updates to the RPTP, which have not occurred. Ensuring RPTPs are current and reflect a region's aspirations is important because it provides direction to the public, co-investors and the public transport sector on what is required to deliver on these aspirations.

3.6 Guidance from NZTA requires that Public Transport Authorities must renew and adopt a regional public transport plan at least once every six years and, if necessary, renew or vary their regional public transport plan at the same time as, or as soon as practicable after, the public transport service components of a regional land transport plan are approved or varied.

3.7 NZTA supports priority resourcing being afforded to the RPTP’s development and completion via the Greater Christchurch Partnership. This is because:

3.7.1 The current RPTP now being six years old

3.7.2 Previous network changes that have not been reflected in the RPTP

3.7.3 The recent adoption of the 2024-2034 Regional Land Transport Plan and the new Government Policy Statement on Land Transport.

3.8 At the GCPC meeting in October 2023, members were advised that the Regional Public Transport Plan refresh process had begun and that, while the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee has responsibility to develop the Greater Christchurch components of the RPTP, the Canterbury Regional Transport Committee was also interested in the development of those components of the plan relating to public transport provision outside Greater Christchurch.

3.9 The GCPC was provided with a report seeking their endorsement on the approach for development of the Greater Christchurch component of the Canterbury RPTP 2024-34, including forming a hearings panel for the purpose of advancing the development of the refreshed RPTP through the public facing engagement process.

3.10 Should the draft RPTP be endorsed, it will then be forwarded to Environment Canterbury for adoption, before the engagement commences in September and the subsequent public submissions/hearings processes are completed in the later quarter of 2024.

Development of the Draft Plan

3.11 Since October, officers have taken a measured approach to the plan refresh process that has allowed subject matter experts from all partner councils and the New Zealand Transport Agency to participate in a fit-for-purpose update of the 2018 Plan document.

3.12 The Plan content has subsequently been refreshed to take into consideration the extensive range of established policy and operational decisions taken over that time that will lead public transport delivery in Greater Christchurch over the next 10 years and beyond. The draft RPTP 2025-2035 (attached) now reflects:

· The evolution of the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan and the Huihui Mai engagement, particularly the work undertaken to date to progress toward Mass Rapid Transit.

· The agreed programme of work that has evolved from the PT Futures Business Case process and looks to upgrade frequencies on major public transport corridors to turn-up-and-go standards.

· The development of faster, more direct services into the Christchurch CBD from Selwyn and Waimakariri Districts that was also developed through the PT Futures Business Case.

· Inclusion of infrastructural elements of the operation of PT services. District and city councils have outlined the programmes of work to support PT delivery, again largely based on PT Futures.

· Changes to fare policies to ensure that price is kept affordable and enable a broader range of concessions for deserving sectors of the community and to incorporate the requirements of the Motu Move national ticketing solution. These developments should ensure that barriers to public transport usage from a payment perspective, are removed.

· The growing role of zero emission vehicles within the public transport fleet.

· The development of on-demand public transport, as demonstrated through the Timaru MyWay by Metro model.

· Changes to the procurement environment resulting from the introduction of the Sustainable Public Transport Framework that allows more flexibility in how services are contracted and delivered.

· Changes to reflect updated requirements of the New Zealand Transport Agency including definition of services and service levels.

3.13 The Plan changes that require additional investment will be caveated subject to funding, until such time as the investment trajectory for public transport improvements is confirmed.

3.14 This refreshed draft plan will form the basis of the public facing engagement process, which is scheduled to begin in September and will be followed by hearings in late November. This engagement will largely take an inform approach, as many of the changes to the Plan having been previously canvassed through previous processes (such as Huihui Mai last year).

3.15 The submissions/hearings for the Greater Christchurch Partnership area are programmed for November and will be mirrored by a similar process run by the Canterbury Regional Transport Committee.

Hearings Panel Membership

3.16 In October 2023, the GCPC were asked the committee to nominate four GCPC representatives (one from each Council) to form the Greater Christchurch RPTP Hearings Panel for the purpose of hearing submissions on the Greater Christchurch components of the draft Canterbury Regional Public Transport Plan 2024-34 and making recommendations to GCP.

3.17 At the meeting the hearings panel nominations were confirmed as:

a. The Waimakariri District Council representative will be Mayor Dan Gordon.

b. The Selwyn District Council representative will be Mayor Sam Broughton.

c. The Christchurch City Council representative will be Councillor Sara Templeton.

d. The Environment Canterbury representative will be Councillor Vicky Southworth.

3.18 Subsequently, some of the hearing panel members have advised that their availability in November (when the hearings need to take-place if the project is to meet its completion target of early 2025) may be compromised. To ensure there is no impediment to the hearings and deliberation process, and to enable the committee to meet its target to present a refreshed RPTP to Environment Canterbury in the early 2025, it is recommended to reconfirm panel membership or nominate a replacement panel member should the need arise.

3.19 While there is not statutory deadline to complete the RPTP, the LTMA section 126 notes the RPTP must be reviewed at the same time or as soon as practicable possible after the RLTP has been approved. The RLTP was approved on 19 June 2024.

Timeline and next steps

3.20 The indicative timeline below provides detail on the dates that the engagement process runs, and the subsequent hearings and deliberations processes that will be undertaken.

Draft Regional Public Transport Plan Public Consultation starts	25 September 2024
Final date for Submissions	24 October 2024
Greater Christchurch Partnership Hearing dates	18 & 19 November 2024 (note reserve days 25 and 26 November if needed)
Hearing Report available to panel	3 December 2024
Greater Christchurch Partnership Hearing Panel Deliberations	11-20 December 2024
Hearing Panel report to GCPC for decision on recommendations	February 2025
GCPC recommends adoption to Environment Canterbury	February/March 2025

3.21 Meeting dates have also been previously emailed out to committee members calendars to notify of the hearing’s dates.

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.	Title	Reference	Page
a ⇩	Terms of Reference for the Draft RPTP Hearing Panel	24/1193426	25
b ⇩	Draft Regional Public Transport Plan 2025-2035	24/1333522	27

7. Greater Christchurch Transport Update
Reference Te Tohutoro:	24/1177253
Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:	Jesse Burgess, Chair of Transport Managers Group
Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:	Tracy Tierney, Director Greater Christchurch Partnership

1. Purpose of Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee with an update on the progress of the Greater Christchurch Transport Work Programme and any implications from recent government decisions.

2. Staff Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee:

1. Note the Greater Christchurch Transport Work Programme update.

2. Note that the Transport Managers Group will provide a further Transport Work Programme update after the NLTP has been announced late August/early September.

3. Greater Christchurch Transport Work Programme Update

Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan (GSCP)

3.1 The GCSP was unanimously endorsed by the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee on Friday 16 February 2024. During March 2024 all Partner Councils also adopted the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan as their Future Development Strategy.

3.2 As such the GCP has committed to achieving the GCSPs overarching directions, one of which is to focus growth through targeted intensification in urban and town centres and along public transport corridors. One of the six opportunities identified as part of the GCSP development is specifically targeted towards transport: Opportunity 6: Prioritise sustainable and accessible transport choices to move people and goods in a way that significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and enables access to social, cultural and economic opportunities.

3.3 The Spatial Plan takes an integrated approach to strategic land use and transport planning to provide a pathway to achieving a more sustainable, accessible and equitable transport future. There are two critical components to Greater Christchurch’s transport network required for the successful realisation of the GCSP and both are interrelated:

3.3.1 Greater Christchurch Public Transport Futures implementation (PT Futures) – collective partnership investment and action are required to create a network that is accessible, convenient, safe and effective.

3.3.2 Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) – an uninterrupted, reliable, effective ‘turn up and go’ transport service.

Greater Christchurch Transport Plan (GCTP)

3.4 The partnership developed a joint work programme comprising key actions and initiatives, and a selection of Priority Areas, that will help to implement the direction of the Spatial Plan.

3.5 The GCTP remains an important part of the implementation of the joint work programme and to put mechanisms in place to monitor progress in achieving the opportunities, directions and key moves set out in the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan. The plans purpose as outlined in the joint work programme is to plan and coordinate the development of an integrated transport system that will encourage mode shift, reduce vehicle kilometres travelled and transport emissions, and help shape the urban form.

3.6 A working group of partner staff are developing the draft GCTP, reporting into the Transport Managers Group (TMG). The first draft of the document is expected to be provided to the TMG meeting in August for review. The anticipated timeline is that the draft GCTP will aim to be presented to the GCPC for comment and review at their October Meeting.

Mass Rapid Transit/ Turn up and go

3.7 A key move within the Spatial Plan, as mentioned above, is the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system which will not only be a significant transport enhancement to Greater Christchurch’s public transport infrastructure, but also a ‘city shaping’ initiative that is fundamental to the shift in urban form required to help achieve a net zero emissions future.

3.8 This route is the central corridor linking Greater Christchurch communities and needed for the GCSP to be effective. For the MRT to be effective it also requires improvements to the surrounding public transport network and initial investment in PT Futures core and rest of network upgrades. This will help to offset the congestion that will arise if we continue to rely on private cars. This is one of the biggest challenges facing Greater Christchurch and will require substantial improvements in its transport system.

3.9 GCPC were last provided an update at the December 2023 meeting. At that meeting it was noted that the MRT work is in an addendum phase preparing for the MRT Detailed Business Case (DBC) phase. This preparatory work includes completing an MRT Indicative Business Case (IBC) technical review, reviewing the implications of the Christchurch City Council’s Housing and Business Choice Plan Change (PC14), undertaking land use and staging development, and preparing the DBC scope.

3.10 It also provided an overview of a two staged DBC that includes preparing and lodging a Notice of Requirement to protect the MRT route.

3.11 The project has been included in the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP), State Highway Improvement Plan (SHIP) and Long Term Plans for the Detailed business case phase. The final hurdle for the project will be if it is included in the National Land Transport Programme, which is expected to be released in late August/early September.

3.12 A more in-depth update on the future steps for the Mass Rapid Transit/ Turn up and go is planned for the GCPC meeting in October.

Public Transport Futures

3.13 An important first step to improving Greater Christchurch’s public transport network and MRT is to accelerate the implementation of planned operational improvements to the existing bus network, as set out in the PT Futures programme.

3.14 The single-stage business case (SSBC) Lite for Route 7 is under review by New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) for project approval and funding through the NLTP 2024-27. ECan confirmed its LTP investment by approving accelerated investment in delivery of PT futures, with some amendments leading to some reductions in the targeted rate across Greater Christchurch. All investment remains subject to funding through the NLTP. The key decisions related to delaying some work to enable government decisions to be clearer, include:

3.14.1 Delaying investment in the mass transit business case until year 2.

3.14.2 Delaying work on route 1 improvements to align with improvements with the direct services to Waimakariri main urban centres in Year 3.

3.14.3 Delaying the start of route 7 uplift until January 2025.

3.15 There were also two key decisions to support further work in key areas of the network, including:

3.15.1 Increased funding in Year 1 to enable early engagement with Halswell and the rest of the community, on the rest of network business case. A point of entry has been submitted to NZTA for discussion and agreement on next steps.

3.15.2 Bringing forward the improvements to the direct service between the main urban centres in Selwyn (Rolleston and Lincoln) and Christchurch City from Year 3 into Year 2.

4. Government Policy Signals related to Transport

4.1 On 27 June 2024, Te Manatū Waka (Ministry of Transport) released the final Government Policy Statement on land transport 2024 (GPS).

4.2 The final GPS focusses on achieving four key strategic priorities:

· Economic Growth and Productivity

· Increased Maintenance and Resilience

· Safety

· Value for Money.

4.3 The GPS 2024 signals significant transformations to the transport system and supporting legislation:

· Funding increased to $22 billion from the $20.2 billion National Land Transport Fund (NLTF) revenue, annual funding and GPS expenditure targets and ranges have all moderately increased. This reflects Crown grants held in tagged contingency for the Rail Network Investment Programme (RNIP) and National Land Transport Programme.

· Ministerial expectations include NZTA to have developed a more efficient business case process, and progress to be made on the future of land transport revenue work by the end of 2024. Centralised procurement including that of road speed signs is also to be investigated with an expectation that speeds be reversed by 1 July 2025.

· The Government is still considering regional deals between central and local government to integrate long-term strategy and planning, across the transport system.

· There is Government intention to amend the Land Transport Management Act to require future GPSs to adopt a 10-year investment plan.

4.4 The next steps are for the NZTA Board to agree on the investments for within the NLTF funding ranges based on those identified in the GPS 2024, it is important to note that allocation of funds is often not expected within the median or upper range. The Government Policy Statement on land transport 2024 can be found on the Te Manatū Waka website.

4.5 The GPS 2024 did not specifically name the MRT project or PT Futures, despite the submissions from Partners for these to be included.

5. Implications for the Greater Christchurch Transport Work Programme

5.1 The final GPS is not significantly different from the draft GPS in terms of transport issues in Greater Christchurch, Canterbury and the South Island. The government policy signals the direction of government funding towards delivery of Roads of National Significance (RoNS) and road maintenance funding towards resealing, rehabilitation, and drainage maintenance works to prevent potholes on State highways and local roads.

5.2 It is recognised that the GPS includes the Belfast to Pegasus Motorway and Woodend Bypass as a Road of National Significance and that there has been a new Roads of Regional Significance added for our region, these includes:

o Canterbury Package – Rural Intersections*

o Canterbury Package – Rolleston Upgrade*

o Canterbury Package – Halswell*

*These projects are Crown funded and should not be considered for additional funding.

5.3 It also refers to The Government is also completing pre-implementation of the Canterbury Package – Brougham Street and SH22 Drury projects. Further Crown funding for these projects is subject to funding availability once the Roads of Regional Significance project costs are confirmed. These two projects may be considered for inclusion in the NLTP if they deliver on the objectives of this GPS.[1]

5.4 Whilst the government indicates “an indicative funding increase of 41 percent for public transport services and operations over the next three years”[2], and the GPS includes investment in a number of major public transport projects that will deliver better public transport options for commuters, these are all projects located within the North Island. In the short term at least, there remains a risk to funding from government to support some of the key Greater Christchurch Transport projects to enable realisation of the overarching objective of the GCSP.

5.5 The upper funding range for PT Infrastructure has increased in years 2025 – 2027. The direction remains for fare box recovery and third-party investment of public transport to support increased PT costs and future improvements. The GPS 2024 expectation remains that public transport patronage will continue to increase.

5.6 Other key information for activity classes includes:

· Safety: Safe infrastructure and road safety promotion are mentioned numerous times in GPS 2024. The Safety Activity Class, however, stipulates no safety traffic calming infrastructure or Council road safety advertising will be eligible for funding. It is a ministerial expectation that NZTA will reduce expenditure on road safety promotion. Safety directives are focused on policing, drug driving and review of infringement fees and penalties.

· Walking and Cycling: All investment in walking and cycling must be primarily funded through this activity class, this includes maintenance of infrastructure such as footpaths, shared use paths and cycle paths. A new addition to the final GPS 2024 is that 25 percent of funding for new improvements should be directed towards footpaths and walking projects. The upper funding range for this activity class has decreased.

· Rail: The GPS 2024 provides investment to operation, maintenance and improvements targeted to the most economic productive areas, all of which are located in the North island.

· Coastal Shipping: This is a new investment area for GPS 2024 and was not mentioned in the draft document. Coastal transport networks are important for interregional travel and align with our Canterbury Regional Land Transport plan 2024-34. Funding for any works would come from reallocating Crown grant funding from rail, is it unknown how these two investment areas will compete including any implications for investment to the Cook Strait connections.

5.7 The risk remains regarding the high likelihood of no new funding for bridges region wide, PT improvements in Greater Christchurch and local road safety improvements.

5.8 Once the partnership understands the funding outcomes from the NLTP, it will be in a better position to provide advice on the next steps. These could include looking at, with the support of NZTA and Ministry of Transport, alternative funding sources to deliver major public transport investments which could include ‘Build, Own, Operate, Transfer’ schemes and value capture and/or planning for improvements to advocacy and partnering with central government.

5.9 Some minor changes have been made that could be beneficial for Councils however there is not adequate detail in the GPS to understand what this might look like. More information will be available with the release of the NLTP later this year.

5.10 The GCP partner councils current LTP transport funding commitments are outlined below. Environment Canterbury’s LTP funding commitments are provided earlier in the report under the PT Futures section. It should be noted that some or all of these projects are subject to central government funding.

Waimakariri District Council (WDC)

5.11 There is a high level of uncertainty around NZTA funding for the Council’s roading projects, particularly Eastern Link Road and Skew Bridge which are multi-year projects. Over 10 years WDC would expect to receive $16.3m from NZTA for both of the two projects.

5.12 Other key projects included:

· Implementation of the Walking and Cycling Strategy is funded for 2024-27.

· Park & Ride Improvements are scheduled to be funded in years 2027/28 and 2029/30.

5.13 It is assumed that the level of financial assistance received from NZTA will remain at 51% for the period of the LTP. Funding assistance for large capital transport works would be achieved on a case-by-case basis through a Business Case approach with NZTA.

5.14 If NZTA funding is not approved, WDC would need to reconsider the budget as part of the Annual Plan process for 2025/26.

Selwyn District Council (SDC)

5.15 In the SDC LTP for the year 2024 – 2034, SDC has committed to $15.87 million funded by rates, NZTA and development contributions. This will look to build two new Park and Ride facilities at Rolleston and one at Lincoln, upgrade Waikirikiri Selwyn public transport infrastructure, and undertake a Public Transport Futures Selwyn Infrastructure business case.

5.16 Other key transport projects included:

· Lincoln Town Centre Upgrade $46 million (upgrade of the main street Gerald St for renewal, multimodal, amenity and safety outcomes)

· Rolleston Arterial Upgrades $19 million (to coordinate with the NZTA Road of Regional Significance SH1 Project)

· Waikirikiri Alpine to Sea Trail $15 million

· Urban development, growth and safety roading upgrades $47 million

· Local Arterial and Safety Upgrades $20 million

5.17 All SDC transport projects are currently subject to NZTA commitment to co-funding.

Christchurch City Council (CCC)

5.18 $1.6 billion funding within the CCC LTP has been committed to across the entire transport network, $1 billion of that on roads, footpaths and road infrastructure renewals and replacements, $199 million on major cycling projects and programmes, and $101 million on bus infrastructure improvements.

5.19 A total budget commitment of $8,163,675 for the period of 2028-2030 will conduct an initial high-level preparation works for the MRT system encompassing feasibility studies, design planning, stakeholder engagement and regulatory approvals to ensure a robust foundation for the subsequent phases of development.

5.20 As a result of uncertainty in funding CCC staff will report back to the Council for a final decision on the Transport Programme and projects after the NZTA has advised the Council of its final funding outcomes in September or October 2024.

6. Next Steps

6.1 Partner staff will continue to review the coalition governments consultations, legislative changes and funding decisions to understand implications for the Greater Christchurch Transport work programme.

6.2 Greater understanding of funding implications for the work programme should be known following the NLTP has been announced late August/early September.

6.3 The Transport Managers Group will provide a further update at the October GCPC meeting, which will outline suggested next steps for the GCPC to consider.

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8. Joint Housing Action Plan Progress Update
Reference Te Tohutoro:	24/1143045
Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:	Tracy Tierney, Director Greater Christchurch Partnership
Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:	John Higgins, General Manager Strategy, Planning & Regulatory Services

1. Purpose of Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1 The purpose of this report is to update the committee on progress with Phase 1 of the Joint Housing Action Plan and on government policy signals related to housing.

2. Relationship to Partnership Objectives Ngā Whāinga Matua ki te hononga

2.1 The development and implementation of the Joint Housing Action Plan was committed to as part of the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan and is a work programme priority for the partnership.

3. Staff Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee:

1. Receive and note this report

4. Housing Action Plan Phase 1 Summary Update

4.1 The cross-partnership Housing Working Group has made good progress on phase 1 of the plan outlined below. Outcomes of investigations into the range of levers available to partners to increase the delivery of affordable housing, is on track to be shared with the Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee (GCPC) at the October meeting.

4.2 The intended approach is to share the findings from phase 1 and seek initial feedback from GCPC then workshop/brief partners to seek their input. This will then help inform the review of the draft phase 2 actions which will be brought back to the GCPC in early 2025 for consideration and endorsement.

	Action	Progress
1	Identify publicly-owned sites (Crown and Council) appropriate for affordable housing development across all three council districts; and determine what is required to acquire/consolidate these for development.	All Councils have now shared their available data and this is in the process of being consolidated including details of any encumbrances/constraints.
2	Identify mechanisms to enable development of affordable housing on public land. One example is retaining it in perpetuity but developing it for affordable housing through a leasehold model. (Requires councils/Crown to prioritise development of affordable housing above other potential uses that may furnish a higher return, as well as sufficient capitalisation to buy back properties to enable them to remain affordable in perpetuity.)	Summary table has been drafted of tenure prototypes and mechanisms that could potentially be used to increase affordable rentals, affordable ownership, and progressive home ownership.
3	Investigate the introduction of inclusionary zoning by all three Councils to collectively increase the supply of social and affordable rental housing.	Actions 3, 4 & 5 are where significant work is underway. They are being considered collectively as a potential ‘carrot & sticks’ package. Planning and economic implications are currently being investigated.
4	Investigate and test incentives to develop affordable housing (e.g. density bonuses, value capture, rates concessions for CHPs, planning concessions).	See Action 3
5	Investigate expanding CCC’s development contribution rebates for social housing to all councils. Investigate extending this to include social, affordable rental and progressive home ownership.	See Action 3
6	Support wider advocacy to influence financial institutions to invest in affordable housing solutions e.g. pension fund investment in build-to-rent housing in Greater Christchurch.	Advocacy plan is being drafted
7	Investigate expanding or mirroring the Ōtautahi Community Housing Trust model (providing charities and charitable community housing providers access to finance and land).	Christchurch City Council are currently considering a Private Bill. Private bills ask for a change to, or an exemption from, a law for the benefit of a particular person or group. Private bills are commonly concerned with matters relating to private trusts, such as land held in trust for use by the community.
8	Develop a monitoring and evaluation framework to track progress	Appropriate measures to track key affordable housing outcomes are being considered as part of the monitoring and evaluation process for the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan.

5. Government Policy Signals Related to Housing

5.1 The Minister of Housing, Hon Chris Bishop in 2023 announced ‘going for housing growth’ would entail “a comprehensive reform programme that targets the underlying causes of the housing shortage:

· Land is made available for housing, mixed use and other development

· Councils can access tools to build infrastructure that is necessary for growth

· Councils have the right incentives to support growth in their regions[3].

5.2 “My goal is to flood urban housing markets for Tier 1 and 2 Councils with land for development. Abundant zoned and serviced land within and at the edge of our cities for housing will moderate land prices and increase competition among land-owners to stop land banking. As the scale of development opportunities increase, developers will have the confidence to build up their capacity” (ibid).

5.3 Proposed work programme over the next three years:

A. Free up land for development:

· Require Councils to make 30 years-worth of land available for development

· Make MDRS rules optional for Councils

· Consider other policy settings to create competitive urban land markets

B. Remove unnecessary planning barriers:

· Establish a fast-track consenting regime

· Provide clear direction to local government around land supply (e.g. MDRS,

NPS-UD)

· Amend and ultimately replace the RMA

C. Provide new funding and financing tools:

· Explore new funding tools for infrastructure including value capture

· Ensure transport funding settings facilitate housing

D. Encourage Councils to support housing growth:

· Investigate options to improve Council incentives for growth, including potentially sharing a portion of GST from developments

· Investigate land protection options to lower infrastructure costs.

· To support this work programme, establish a Ministerial working group

comprising Ministers of Finance, Infrastructure, RMA Reform, Transport, Local Government and Housing.

5.4 With respect to housing, Budget 2024 entailed:

· $140 million in new funding for 1,500 new social housing places to be provided by Community Housing Providers (CHPs), not Kāinga Ora.

“The Government’s new investment in 1,500 social housing places will start to become available from July 2025 onwards, giving the community housing sector much-needed certainty about the social housing pipeline, allowing them to plan for the future, and scale-up their build programmes” (Minister of Housing) [4].

· This investment is to be paid for by ending the First Home Grant: “The answer to New Zealand’s housing crisis is not demand-side measures like the First Home Grant, but supply-side solutions contained in the Government’s Going for Housing Growth agenda (ibid).

· The Government will retain the First Home Loan which allows first home buyers to purchase a home with a deposit as low as five per cent. The Government is also retaining the ability for KiwiSaver members to withdraw funds for a first home house deposit.

The Budget cut funding in other areas pertaining to housing:

· Cuts to of $127.5m over 4 years to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority through reversals of various new parts of the programme including funding for hot water heating, low-cost energy efficiencies, an LED lighting scheme, and an outreach approach for hard-to-access homes.

· It also cut $435 million from the Kāinga Ora house build programme and over $1 billion from the maintenance fund[5].

5.5 The review of Kāinga Ora by Sir Bill English inferred financial mismanagement with an annual deficit of $700m. It recommended a multi-year transformation at the agency, beginning with a refreshed board (which was subsequently appointed in early July) and culminating in a shift towards delivering housing along a social investment model, which should occur within the next three years.

5.6 Minister Chris Bishop said the Government would continue to build and own public houses, but it appears likely that the growth in the number of houses Kāinga Ora builds and owns will slow and focus could shift towards allowing Community Housing Providers (CHPs), often charities, a greater role in providing social housing. It has not yet revealed how this transition will occur.

5.7 The Minister also announced a broad review of the existing housing programmes the Government currently runs, no further detail on the review is available currently.

6. Implications for the Joint Housing Action Plan

6.1 In relation to the Minister’s work programme:

A. Free up land for development:

6.2 On 4 July the Minister announced the following:

· The establishment of Housing Growth Targets for Tier 1 and 2 councils

· New rules requiring cities to be allowed to expand outwards at the urban fringe

· A strengthening of the intensification provisions in the National Policy Statement on Urban Development (NPS-UD)

· New rules requiring councils to enable mixed-use developments in our cities.

· The abolition of minimum floor area and balcony requirements

· New provisions making the MDRS optional for councils

6.3 Land supply constraints are less relevant in Greater Christchurch. Indeed, the Minister’s approach reflects learnings from Greater Christchurch’s response to the earthquakes in releasing land for development. It is expected that housing growth targets are already met as 30+ years of demand is currently zoned within Greater Christchurch. However, how this relates to ‘live zoned’ in terms of infrastructure requirements and compensatory housing capacity where ‘unlisted’ qualifying matters are used, is not yet clear.

6.4 The change in time horizon for Future Development Strategies from 30 to 50 years is effectively already considered in the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan as it looks towards a population of 1 million +.

6.5 We await further detail on the other policy settings to assess their usefulness in advancing affordable housing in Greater Christchurch.

B. Remove unnecessary planning barriers:

6.6 Fast-track consenting, clear direction to local government around land supply and amending and replacing the RMA will affect Greater Christchurch but this a ‘watching brief’ awaiting further detail.

C. Provide new funding and financing tools:

6.7 An area of potential opportunity, as access to funding and financing is a major handicap for community housing providers, and intervention from government is necessary to tackle the market failure in the left-hand third of the housing continuum. The private sector is unlikely to deliver unless there are incentives or penalties, which are also being considered as part of the Joint Housing Action Plan.

6.8 It is also important to note that the Minister’s work programme refers to the connection between transport funding settings and facilitating housing: this is the fundamental premise of the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan (GCSP)and so should be used to demonstrate that the Partnership is ‘ahead of the game’, and to promote ongoing support from government for the GCSP (i.e. investment in public transport).

D. Encourage Councils to support housing growth:

6.9 This is a key strength of the work done to date by the Partnership. By adopting the Joint Housing Action Plan, the Councils of Greater Christchurch have signalled their commitment to playing their part to improve housing affordability. This is a critical message to government: “we are doing our part, and we need you to too”.

6.10 The mechanisms identified (sharing a portion of GST from developments and investigating land protection options to lower infrastructure costs) can complement the Joint Housing Action Plan which includes a much wider range of initiatives that Councils can deploy.

6.11 With respect to the 1500 social houses to be funded, Christchurch City Council and Ōtautahi Community Housing Trust have actively engaged with the Minister to demonstrate achievements to date and what is required for further delivery of housing. We know that the Minister has been impressed by what has been achieved as he articulated at the opening of the Carey St complex in June 2024. However, the criteria for apportionment of the 1500 houses are yet unclear.

6.12 The uncertainty in relation to Kāinga Ora is concerning for Greater Christchurch, as Kāinga Ora is the major social housing provider across New Zealand by orders of magnitude (~8000 houses in Greater Christchurch compared with ~2000 owned by Ōtautahi Community Housing Trust as the next largest provider). Disruption to the significant pipeline of delivery is concerning given the demand and need, particularly as there is no clarity yet on how the Community Housing Providers are to be supported to increase delivery.

6.13 The independent review of Kāinga Ora supported a placed-based housing system approach for tenants and providers in geographic housing markets, to enable decision making close to households and communities. It further recommended the use of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Developments established place-based and urban growth partnership initiatives, with purchaser-funder agreeing local housing strategies and priorities with communities. This could lead to the creation of Community Housing Associations to manage the government’s local social housing and pursue agreed local housing strategies and priorities. The Greater Christchurch Partnership is well placed to assist with the establishment of a Community Housing Association in our area.

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[5] https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/518609/labour-attacks-budget-2024-over-cuts-for-housing-catastrophe-for-new-zealand