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Christchurch City Council

Agenda

 

 

Notice of Meeting Te Pānui o te Hui:

An ordinary meeting of the Christchurch City Council will be held on:

 

Date:                                    Wednesday 17 September 2025

Time:                                   9.30 am

Venue:                                 Camellia Chambers, Level 2, Civic Offices, 53 Hereford Street

Please note that while we will try to accommodate all those who wish to attend the meeting in person, there is limited capacity in the Camellia Chambers, and priority will be given to those who are presenting to the Council.

 

 

Membership

Chairperson

Deputy Chairperson

Members

Mayor Phil Mauger

Deputy Mayor Pauline Cotter

Councillor Kelly Barber

Councillor Melanie Coker

Councillor Celeste Donovan

Councillor Tyrone Fields

Councillor James Gough

Councillor Tyla Harrison-Hunt

Councillor Victoria Henstock

Councillor Yani Johanson

Councillor Aaron Keown

Councillor Sam MacDonald

Councillor Jake McLellan

Councillor Andrei Moore

Councillor Mark Peters

Councillor Tim Scandrett

Councillor Sara Templeton

 

 

11 September 2025

 

Principal Advisor

Mary Richardson

Chief Executive

Tel: 941 8999

mary.richardson@ccc.govt.nz

Meeting Advisor

Katie Matheis

Senior Democratic Services Advisor

Tel: 941 5643

katie.matheis@ccc.govt.nz

Website: www.ccc.govt.nz

 

 

Note:  The reports contained within this agenda are for consideration and should not be construed as Council policy unless and until adopted.  If you require further information relating to any reports, please contact the person named on the report.
To watch the meeting live, or previous meeting recordings, go to:
http://councillive.ccc.govt.nz/live-stream
To view copies of Agendas and Minutes, go to:
https://www.ccc.govt.nz/the-council/meetings-agendas-and-minutes/

 

 


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TABLE OF CONTENTS NGĀ IHIRANGI

 Karakia Tīmatanga................................................................................................... 4 

1.        Apologies Ngā Whakapāha................................................................................. 4

2.        Declarations of Interest Ngā Whakapuaki Aronga.................................................. 4

3.        Public Participation Te Huinga Tūmatanui............................................................ 4

3.1       Public Forum Te Huinga Whānui.......................................................................................... 4

3.2       Deputations by Appointment Ngā Huinga Whakaritenga...................................................... 4

4.        Presentation of Petitions Ngā Pākikitanga............................................................ 4

Council

5.        Council Minutes - 3 September 2025.................................................................... 6

Staff Reports

6.        Valedictory - Councillor Gough.......................................................................... 31

7.        New Footpaths Programme.............................................................................. 32

8.        Welles Street Temporary Improvements............................................................. 66

9.        Decision on Plan Change 13 - Heritage................................................................ 88

10.      Governance Matters......................................................................................... 96

11.      Amendments to the Register of Delegations...................................................... 103

12.      Council submission: Local Government Commission - Standardised Code of Conduct 109

13.      Council submissions process during the 2025 local elections................................ 134

14.      Advice on Support for Emergency and Community Housing................................. 138

15.      Resolution to Exclude the Public...................................................................... 154  

Karakia Whakamutunga

 

 

 

 


Karakia Tīmatanga

Whakataka te hau ki te uru

Whakataka te hau ki te tonga

Kia mākinakina ki uta

Kia mātaratara ki tai

E hī ake ana te atakura

He tio, he huka, he hau hū  

Tihei mauri ora

 

1.   Apologies Ngā Whakapāha  

Apologies will be recorded at the meeting.

2.   Declarations of Interest Ngā Whakapuaki Aronga

Members are reminded of the need to be vigilant and to stand aside from decision-making when a conflict arises between their role as an elected representative and any private or other external interest they might have.

3.   Public Participation Te Huinga Tūmatanui

3.1   Public Forum Te Huinga Whānui

A period of up to 30 minutes is available for people to speak for up to five minutes on any issue that is not the subject of a separate hearings process.

Public Forum presentations will be recorded in the meeting minutes.

 

3.2   Deputations by Appointment Ngā Huinga Whakaritenga

Deputations may be heard on a matter, or matters, covered by a report on this agenda and approved by the Chairperson.

3.2.1

Tony Chaston

Tony Chaston will speak regarding Item 7– New Footpaths Programme.

 

 

3.2.2

Waipuna Halswell – Hornby – Riccarton Community Board

Chairperson Marie Pollisco will speak on behalf of the Waipuna Halswell – Hornby – Riccarton Community Board regarding Item 7– New Footpaths Programme.

 

 

3.2.3

Cody Cooper

Cody Cooper will speak regarding Item 7– New Footpaths Programme.

 

 

 

4.   Presentation of Petitions Ngā Pākikitanga

There were no Presentations of Petitions at the time the agenda was prepared.  

 

To present to the Council, refer to the Participating in decision-making webpage or contact the meeting advisor listed on the front of this agenda.

 


5.     Council Minutes - 3 September 2025

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/1796621

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Katie Matheis, Senior Democratic Services Advisor

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

Mary Richardson, Chief Executive

 

 

1.   Purpose of Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

For the Council to confirm the minutes from the Council meeting held 3 September 2025.

2.   Recommendation Te Tūtohu Council

That the Council confirms the Minutes from the Council meeting held 3 September 2025.

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.

Title

Reference

Page

A

Minutes Council - 3 September 2025

25/1761311

7

 

 

Signatories Ngā Kaiwaitohu

Author

Katie Matheis - Senior Democratic Services Advisor

 

 


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Christchurch City Council

Minutes

 

 

Date:                                    Wednesday 3 September 2025

Time:                                   9.31 am

Venue:                                 Camellia Chambers, Level 2, Civic Offices, 53 Hereford Street

 

 

Present

Chairperson

Deputy Chairperson

Members

Mayor Phil Mauger

Deputy Mayor Pauline Cotter

Councillor Kelly Barber

Councillor Melanie Coker

Councillor Celeste Donovan

Councillor Tyrone Fields

Councillor James Gough - via audio/visual link

Councillor Tyla Harrison-Hunt

Councillor Victoria Henstock

Councillor Yani Johanson

Councillor Aaron Keown – via audio/visual link

Councillor Sam MacDonald

Councillor Jake McLellan

Councillor Andrei Moore

Councillor Mark Peters

Councillor Tim Scandrett

Councillor Sara Templeton

 

 

 

 

 

Principal Advisor

Mary Richardson

Chief Executive

Tel: 941 8999

mary.richardson@ccc.govt.nz

Meeting Advisor

Katie Matheis

Senior Democratic Services Advisor

Tel: 941 5643

katie.matheis@ccc.govt.nz

 

 

 

To watch a recording of this meeting, or future meetings live, go to:
http://councillive.ccc.govt.nz/live-stream
To view copies of Agendas and Minutes, visit:
www.ccc.govt.nz/the-council/meetings-agendas-and-minutes/

 


 

 

Karakia Tīmatanga

 

 

External Recognition – Te Kuru

The Mayor acknowledged the recent IPWEA Australasia Public Works Awards where Te Kuru was named Project of the Year 2025 and the Best Public Works Project Over $5M.

 

 

The agenda was dealt with in the following order.

1.   Apologies Ngā Whakapāha 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00289

That the apologies from Councillor MacDonald for lateness and potential early departure and from Councillors Barber, Gough, and Johanson for early departure be accepted.

 

Mayor/Deputy Mayor                                                                                                                                               Carried

 

2.   Declarations of Interest Ngā Whakapuaki Aronga

 

Councillor Gough declared an interest in Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision (in-part) and Proposed Withdrawal.

 

 

Councillor Donovan joined the meeting at 9.34 am during the Mayor’s acknowledgment of Te Kuru.

Councillor Henstock left the meeting at 9.48 am during consideration of Item 12.

Councillor McLellan joined the meeting at 9.51 am during consideration of Item 12.

Councillor MacDonald joined the meeting at 9.55 am during consideration of Item 12.

Councillor McLellan left the meeting at 10.00 am and returned at 10.03 am during consideration of Item 12.

 

 

12. Monthly Report from the Community Boards - August 2025

 

Council Comment

1.         Before the start of the Community Board presentations, the Mayor took a moment to acknowledge the Waipapa Papanui-Innes-Central Community Board Chairperson, Emma Norrish, and the Waihoro Spreydon-Cashmere-Heathcote Community Board Chairperson, Callum Ward, who are stepping away from local government this election cycle. The Mayor commended them for their work, contributions and commitment to their communities and the Council.

 

Emma Norrish, Chairperson, and Simon Britten, Deputy Chairperson, joined the meeting for presentation of the Waipapa Papanui-Innes-Central Community Board area report.

Marie Pollisco, Chairperson, and Helen Broughton, Deputy Chairperson, joined the meeting for presentation of the Waipuna Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board area report.

Jackie Simons, Deputy Chairperson, and Chris Turner-Bullock, Community Governance Manager, joined the meeting for presentation of the Waitai Coastal-Burwood-Linwood Community Board area report.

Lyn Leslie, Chairperson, and Penelope Goldstone, Community Governance Manager, joined the meeting for presentation of the Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū Banks Peninsula Community Board area report.

Callum Ward, Chairperson, Emma Pavey, Community Governance Manager, and Keir Leslie, Deputy Chairperson (via audio/visual link), joined the meeting for presentation of the Waihoro Spreydon-Cashmere-Heathcote Community Board area report.

 

Jason Middlemiss, Chairperson, and Maryanne Lomax, Community Governance Manager, joined the meeting for presentation of the Waimāero Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood Community Board area report.

 

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00290

Officer Recommendation accepted without change

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Monthly Report from the Community Boards - August 2025 Report.

Mayor/Councillor Coker                                                                                                                                         Carried

 

 

Attachments

a       Waipapa Papanui-Innes-Central Community Board - Presentation to Council 

b      Waipuna Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board - Presentation to Council 

c      Waitai Coastal-Burwood-Linwood Community Board - Presentation to Council 

d      Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū Banks Peninsula Community Board - Presentation to Council 

e       Waihoro Spreydon-Cashmere-Heathcote Community Board - Presentation to Council 

f       Waimāero Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood Community Board - Presentation to Council  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Councillor Henstock returned to the meeting at 10.16 am during consideration of Item 3.1.1.

3.   Public Participation Te Huinga Tūmatanui

3.1   Public Forum Te Huinga Whānui

3.1.1

Wigram Halswell Rugby Club

Sam Joyce, Paul Hammond, and Tony Smail spoke on behalf of the Wigram Halswell Rugby Club regarding the conditions of the Rugby Club home grounds.

 

3.1.2     Rebecca Robin

Rebecca Robin spoke regarding homelessness in the Red Zone.

Attachments

a       Rebecca Robin - Presentation to Council  

 

Councillor Barber left the meeting at 10.31 am during consideration of Item 3.2.1 and did not return.

3.2   Deputations by Appointment Ngā Huinga Whakaritenga

3.2.1

Christchurch Water Crematorium

Deborah Richards spoke on behalf of the Christchurch Water Crematorium regarding Item 14 – Amendment to the Cemeteries Handbook (ashes).

 

 

Councillor Henstock left the meeting at 10.33 am and returned at 10.36 am during consideration of Item 3.2.2.

Councillor Johanson left the meeting at 10.34 am during consideration of Item 3.2.2 and did not return.

 

3.2.2     Combined Residents' Associations - Christchurch

Tony Simons spoke on behalf of the Combined Residents' Associations regarding Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision and Proposed Withdrawal.

 

 

Councillor Donovan left the meeting at 10.42 am and returned at 10.45 am during consideration of Item 3.2.3.

 

3.2.3     Helen Broughton

Helen Broughton spoke on behalf of the Waitai Coastal Burwood Linwood Community Board regarding Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision and Proposed Withdrawal.

 

 

3.2.4     Luke Chandler

Luke Chandler spoke in his capacity as an individual regarding Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision and Proposed Withdrawal.

 

4.   Presentation of Petitions Ngā Pākikitanga

There was no presentation of petitions.  

 

5.   Council Minutes - 5 August 2025

Council Comment

1.         The meeting block resolved Open Minutes Items 5 through 11 and Public Excluded Minutes Items 22 through 26.

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00291

That the Council confirms the Minutes from the Council meeting held 5 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

6.   Council Minutes - 6 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00292

That the Council confirms the Minutes from the Council meeting held 6 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

7.   Council Minutes - 20 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00293

That the Council confirms the Minutes from the Council meeting held 20 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

8.   Canterbury Waste Joint Committee Minutes - 11 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00294

That the Council receives the Minutes from the Canterbury Waste Joint Committee meeting held 11 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

9.   Canterbury Regional Landfill Joint Committee Minutes - 11 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00295

That the Council receives the Minutes from the Canterbury Regional Landfill Joint Committee meeting held 11 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

 

10. Audit and Risk Management Committee Minutes - 15 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00296

That the Council receives the Minutes from the Audit and Risk Management Committee meeting held 15 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

11. Central City Parking Restrictions Committee Minutes - 22 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00297

That the Council receives the Minutes from the Central City Parking Restrictions Committee meeting held 22 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

22. Public Excluded Canterbury Regional Landfill Joint Committee Minutes - 11 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00298

That the Council receives the Public Excluded Minutes from the Canterbury Regional Landfill Joint Committee meeting held 11 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

23. Public Excluded Audit and Risk Management Committee Minutes - 15 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00299

That the Council receives the Public Excluded Minutes from the Audit and Risk Management Committee meeting held 15 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

24. Public Excluded Council Minutes - 6 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00300

That the Council confirms the Public Excluded minutes from the Council meeting held on 6 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

 

 

 

 

 

25. Public Excluded Council Minutes - 5 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00301

That the Council confirms the Public Excluded minutes from the Council meeting held on 5 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

26. Public Excluded Council Minutes - 20 August 2025

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00302

That the Council confirms the Public Excluded minutes from the Council meeting held on 20 August 2025.

Mayor/Councillor Templeton                                                                                                                               Carried

 

The meeting adjourned at 11.14 am and reconvened at 11.37 am during consideration of Item 13. Councillor Scandrett was not present at this time.

 

Councillor Gough left the meeting via audio/visual link at 11.15 am and did not return.

Councillor Scandrett returned to the meeting at 11.39 am.

 

 

13. Plan Change 14 Decision (in-part) and Proposed Withdrawal

 

Council Comment

1.         Council Officers Mark Stevenson, Sarah Oliver, and Brent Pizzey joined the table to present Item 13 and answer questions from elected members. At this time, five updated maps were tabled (refer Minutes Attachments) to replace the following attachments to the report on the agenda:

·    Attachment A (Map 1)

·    Attachment B (Map 2)

·    Attachment C (Map 3)

·    Attachment F (Map 6)

·    Attachment H (Map 8)

2.         The Mayor Moved Officer Recommendations 1 through 5 and 7 through 14. This was Seconded by Deputy Mayor Cotter.

3.         Councillor Moore Moved an amendment (refer Resolution 15) regarding writing the Minister to request the ability to revisit previous zoning decisions to enable more density without undertaking a new Plan Change.

4.         Councillor Harrison-Hunt Moved a further amendment to include Officer Recommendation 6(b) in part as it relates to the area between Konini and Puriri Streets as depicted in Attachment E (Map 5) to the report.

5.         With the agreement of the Mover and Seconder, the amendments put forward by Councillor Moore and Councillor Harrison-Hunt were incorporated into the Original Motion.

6.         As no further amendments were moved to incorporate Officer Recommendations 6(a), (c), or (d), the corresponding Recommendation 7(b)(i) was struck from the Motion before voting as it was no longer necessary.

7.         At the conclusion of debate, the meeting voted on the Motion as amended, which was declared carried.

 

Officer Recommendations

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Plan Change 14 Decision (in-part) and Proposed Withdrawal Report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as high significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Receives the Independent Hearings Panel (the Panel) – Plan Change 14 Housing and Business Choice recommendation reports, including recommendations on submissions, further report addendums to the recommendations report, and further minutes that modify the recommendations report, as provided on the PC14 IHP Webpage: https://chch2023.ihp.govt.nz/recommendations-report/.

4.         Receives the PDF mapping of medium density areas included as Attachments A to K to this report and the online webmap ‘PC14 Proposed Opt Out – 3 September 2025’ (https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/51fa6c542af34ed580eb06388eabe0fd).

Decision to limit the extent of Plan Change 14 decisions

5.         Limits decision-making to the area within ‘Proposed 3 September 2025 zoning’ in the mapping detailed in Recommendation 4 of this report Attachments A to K and the webmap.

6.         In addition to Recommendation 5, extends the decision-making to the following areas marked as ‘Prospective MRZ Additions’:

a.         Princess Margaret Hospital as detailed in Attachment I [PC14 MRZ Council Opt-Out – Proposal: Map 9];

b.         MRT corridor addition – Riccarton’ as detailed in Attachment E [PC14 MRZ Council Opt-Out – Proposal: Map 5]

c.         MRT corridor addition – Sockburn’ as detailed in Attachment G [PC14 MRZ Council Opt-Out – Proposal: Map 7]

d.         MRT corridor addition – Merivale’ as detailed in Attachment B [PC14 MRZ Council Opt-Out – Proposal: Map 2]

Decisions to Accept the Panel’s Recommendations on Plan Change 14

Zones and overlays

7.         Accepts the Panel’s Recommendations within the approved areas in Recommendations 5 and 6 as follows:

a.         Medium Density Residential Zone;

b.         Specific Purpose (Hospital) Zone, only in relation to:

i.          Princess Margaret Hospital [as per Recommendation 6.a.];

ii.         Hillmorton Hospital, but only for the Lincoln / Annex Road site (legally described as Secs 3 and 4 SO 525420, Pt RS 159 Canterbury Dist) [as per Recommendation 5];

c.         Specific Purpose (School) Zone;

d.         Residential Visitor Accommodation Zone;

e.         Enhanced Development Mechanism overlay [to retain];

f.          Community Housing Redevelopment Mechanism overlay [to retain only for the Residential Overlay];

g.         Riccarton Wastewater Interceptor Catchment Overlay [to remove this];

h.         The Residential Pathways.

i.          Any other residential zone or overlay, only to the extent that they support or are consequential on this decision and only to the extent that they apply within the areas approved in Recommendations 5 and 6.

Qualifying matters

8.         Accepts the Panel’s Recommendations within the approved areas in Recommendations 5 and 6 as follows:

a.         Airport Noise Influence Area: 2023 Remodelled 50 dB Ldn Outer Envelope and 50 dB Ldn Air Noise Contour [to retain and expand];

b.         Electricity Corridors and Structures [to retain];

c.         Heritage Items & Settings [to retain and remove];

d.         Heritage Items & Settings [to only retain and remove];

e.         Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes [to retain];

f.          Significant and Other Trees [to only retain and remove];

g.         Railway Building Setbacks [to retain];

h.         Residential Character Area [to only retain and remove];

i.          Sites of Ecological Significance [to retain];

j.          Waterbody setbacks [to retain];

k.         Industrial Interface [to apply as new restriction];

l.          Residential Heritage Area Interface [to reject the proposed restriction];

m.       Sunlight Access [to reject the proposed restriction];

District Plan Chapters

9.         Accepts the Panel’s Recommendations within the approved areas in Recommendations 5 and 6 as follows:

a.         Chapter 2 – Definitions;

b.         Chapter 5 – Natural Hazards;

c.         Chapter 6 – General Rules and Procedures;

d.         Chapter 7 – Transport;

e.         Chapter 8 – Subdivision, Development and Earthworks;

f.          Chapter 11 – Utilities and Energy;

g.         Chapter 13 – Special Purpose Zones;

h.         Chapter 14 – Residential (inclusive of 14A and 14B sub-parts).

Application to withdraw Plan Change 14

10.       Agrees to apply to the Minister under Schedule 3C (Part 2) of the Resource Management Act for approval to withdraw the undecided remainder of Plan Change 14.

11.       Subject to the approval of the Minister, resolves to withdraw the undecided balance of Plan Change 14 under Clause 8D of the First Schedule of the Resource Management Act.

Clerical delegations and approvals:

12.       Delegates authority to the Head of Planning and Consents to make changes of minor effect or to correct minor errors in the accepted Panel’s recommendations before publicly notifying its decisions on the recommendations above.

13.       Delegates authority to the Head of Planning and Consents to apply to the Minister to withdraw the undecided balance of Plan Change 14, as per Recommendation 10, and any associated administration needed for the Minister to complete decision making.

14.       Resolves to publicly notify its above decisions on Panel recommendations NO LATER THAN 19 September 2025 and to serve that public notice on every person who made a submission on Plan Change 14.

 

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00303

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Plan Change 14 Decision (in-part) and Proposed Withdrawal Report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as high significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Receives the Independent Hearings Panel (the Panel) – Plan Change 14 Housing and Business Choice recommendation reports, including recommendations on submissions, further report addendums to the recommendations report, and further minutes that modify the recommendations report, as provided on the PC14 IHP Webpage: https://chch2023.ihp.govt.nz/recommendations-report/.

4.         Receives the PDF mapping of medium density areas included as Attachments A to K to this report / or tabled at the meeting and the online webmap ‘PC14 Proposed Opt Out – 3 September 2025’ (https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/51fa6c542af34ed580eb06388eabe0fd).

Decision to limit the extent of Plan Change 14 decisions

5.         Limits decision-making to the area within ‘Proposed 3 September 2025 zoning’ in the mapping detailed in Recommendation 4 of this report Attachments A to K to this report / or tabled at the meeting and the webmap.

6.         In addition to Recommendation 5, extends the decision-making to the following areas marked as ‘Prospective MRZ Additions’:

b.         MRT corridor addition in part– Riccarton’ as detailed in Attachment E between Konini and Puriri Streets [PC14 MRZ Council Opt-Out – Proposal: Map 5]

Decisions to Accept the Panel’s Recommendations on Plan Change 14

Zones and overlays

7.         Accepts the Panel’s Recommendations within the approved areas in Recommendations 5 and 6 as follows:

a.         Medium Density Residential Zone;

b.         Specific Purpose (Hospital) Zone, only in relation to:

ii.         Hillmorton Hospital, but only for the Lincoln / Annex Road site (legally described as Secs 3 and 4 SO 525420, Pt RS 159 Canterbury Dist) [as per Recommendation 5];

c.         Specific Purpose (School) Zone;

d.         Residential Visitor Accommodation Zone;

e.         Enhanced Development Mechanism overlay [to retain];

f.          Community Housing Redevelopment Mechanism overlay [to retain only for the Residential Overlay];

g.         Riccarton Wastewater Interceptor Catchment Overlay [to remove this];

h.         The Residential Pathways.

i.          Any other residential zone or overlay, only to the extent that they support or are consequential on this decision and only to the extent that they apply within the areas approved in Recommendations 5 and 6.

Qualifying matters

8.         Accepts the Panel’s Recommendations within the approved areas in Recommendations 5 and 6 as follows:

a.         Airport Noise Influence Area: 2023 Remodelled 50 dB Ldn Outer Envelope and 50 dB Ldn Air Noise Contour [to retain and expand];

b.         Electricity Corridors and Structures [to retain];

c.         Heritage Items & Settings [to retain and remove];

d.         Heritage Items & Settings [to only retain and remove];

e.         Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes [to retain];

f.          Significant and Other Trees [to only retain and remove];

g.         Railway Building Setbacks [to retain];

h.         Residential Character Area [to only retain and remove];

i.          Sites of Ecological Significance [to retain];

j.          Waterbody setbacks [to retain];

k.         Industrial Interface [to apply as new restriction];

l.          Residential Heritage Area Interface [to reject the proposed restriction];

m.       Sunlight Access [to reject the proposed restriction];

District Plan Chapters

9.         Accepts the Panel’s Recommendations within the approved areas in Recommendations 5 and 6 as follows:

a.         Chapter 2 – Definitions;

b.         Chapter 5 – Natural Hazards;

c.         Chapter 6 – General Rules and Procedures;

d.         Chapter 7 – Transport;

e.         Chapter 8 – Subdivision, Development and Earthworks;

f.          Chapter 11 – Utilities and Energy;

g.         Chapter 13 – Special Purpose Zones;

h.         Chapter 14 – Residential (inclusive of 14A and 14B sub-parts).

Application to withdraw Plan Change 14

10.       Agrees to apply to the Minister under Schedule 3C (Part 2) of the Resource Management Act for approval to withdraw the undecided remainder of Plan Change 14.

11.       Subject to the approval of the Minister, resolves to withdraw the undecided balance of Plan Change 14 under Clause 8D of the First Schedule of the Resource Management Act.

Clerical delegations and approvals:

12.       Delegates authority to the Head of Planning and Consents to make changes of minor effect or to correct minor errors in the accepted Panel’s recommendations before publicly notifying its decisions on the recommendations above.

13.       Delegates authority to the Head of Planning and Consents to apply to the Minister to withdraw the undecided balance of Plan Change 14, as per Recommendation 10, and any associated administration needed for the Minister to complete decision making.

14.       Resolves to publicly notify its above decisions on Panel recommendations NO LATER THAN 19 September 2025 and to serve that public notice on every person who made a submission on Plan Change 14.

15.       Agrees to write to the Minster requesting the ability to revisit previous decisions on the City Centre walking catchment & Sydenham Mixed Use to enable more density around the Central City without undertaking a new plan change.

Mayor/Deputy Mayor                                                                                                                                               Carried

Councillor Moore requested his vote against resolutions 1 through 14 be recorded.

 

 

Attachments

a       Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision (in part) and Proposed Withdrawal - Staff Presentation to Council 

b      Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision (in part) and Proposed Withdrawal - Replacement Attachment A - Proposal Belfast Map 1 

c      Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision (in part) and Proposed Withdrawal - Replacement Attachment B - Proposal Papanui Map 2 

d      Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision (in part) and Proposed Withdrawal - Replacement Attachment C - Proposal St Albans Map 3 

e       Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision (in part) and Proposed Withdrawal - Replacement Attachment F - Proposal Linwood Map 6 

f       Item 13 - Plan Change 14 Decision (in part) and Proposed Withdrawal - Replacement Attachment H - Proposal Addington Hillmorton Map 8  

 

14. Amendment to the Cemeteries Handbook (ashes)

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00304

Officer Recommendations accepted without change

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Amendment to the Cemeteries Handbook (ashes) Report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Agrees to amend the Cemeteries Handbook, as set out in Attachment A to this report.

Councillor MacDonald/Mayor                                                                                                                              Carried

 

15. Capital Endowment Fund Applications - 2025/26

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00305

Officer Recommendations accepted without change

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in Capital Endowment Fund Applications - 2025/26 Report.

2.         Notes that the decisions in this report are assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Agrees to make the following grants from the Capital Endowment Fund:

a.         $50,000 to Banks Peninsula Sports and Recreation Incorporated towards the Akaroa Multipurpose Court.

b.         $150,000 to Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke for Conference Facility and Area Extension.

c.         $100,000 to Heathcote Valley Community Association for Ferrymead Park Community Pumptrack.

d.         $75,333 to Te Whatu Manawa Maori-Tanga o Rehua Trust Board for Marae Upgrades.

e.         $313,000 to Isaac Theatre Royal for Major Building Repair Work.

f.          $400,000 to St John - Banks Peninsula Area Committee for Akaroa St John Ambulance Station Build.

4.         Notes that all grants are subject to confirmation from each organisation that they have sufficient resources and a robust project plan in place to complete the project.

Councillor Templeton/Mayor                                                                                                                               Carried

 

 

 

Councillor MacDonald left at 12.00 pm during consideration of Item 16 and did not return.

 

16. Extension of Hagley Avenue Clearway Trial Period

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00306

Officer Recommendations accepted without change

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Extension of Hagley Avenue Clearway Trial Period Report.

2.         Notes that the decision outlined in this report is assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Approves the extension of the trial period of the time-restricted clearway, which is currently in operation on the north side of Hagley Avenue, between its intersections with Riccarton Avenue and St Asaph Street (from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM), for a further six months.

4.         Notes that should the recommendation for the extension be approved, staff will undertake public consultation before returning to the Council for a decision as to permanence of the clearway.

Councillor MacDonald/Mayor                                                                                                                              Carried

Councillor McLellan requested his vote against the resolutions be recorded.

 

The meeting adjourned at 12.05 pm and reconvened at 12.17 pm during consideration of Item 17.

 

17. Wheels to Wings Section 1 - Harewood Road (Matsons Avenue to 27 Harewood Road)- Detailed Traffic Resolutions

 

Council Comment

1.         Council Officers Jacob Bradbury and Jennifer Rankin joined the table to speak to Item 17 and answer questions from elected members.

2.         The Officer Recommendations were Moved by Councillor Templeton and Seconded by Councillor Coker.

3.         Councillor Henstock then Moved an amendment to remove the raised platform west of Matsons Avenue and east of Chapel Street as detailed in Attachment A to the report (refer Resolution 35). This was Seconded by Councillor Scandrett.

4.         At the conclusion of debate, the meeting voted first on the amendment. This was declared carried by division.

5.         The meeting then voted on the Substantive Motion as amended, which was declared carried. The Officers Recommendations were otherwise accepted without change.

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00307

That the Council:

35.         Agrees to remove implementation of the raised platform west of Matsons Avenue and east of Chapel Street from the detailed traffic resolutions and as reflected in Attachment A.

 

The division was declared carried by 13 votes to 1 vote the voting being as follows:

For:                          Mayor Mauger, Deputy Mayor Cotter, Councillor Coker, Councillor Donovan, Councillor Fields, Councillor Harrison-Hunt, Councillor Henstock, Councillor Keown, Councillor MacDonald, Councillor McLellan, Councillor Moore, Councillor Peters and Councillor Scandrett

Against:                 Councillor Templeton

Councillor Henstock/Councillor Scandrett                                                                                                     Carried

 

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00308

Officer Recommendations accepted without change

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Wheels to Wings Section 1 - Harewood Road (Matsons Avenue to 27 Harewood Road)- Detailed Traffic Resolutions Report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as medium significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Makes the following Resolutions required for the implementation of the Wheels to Wings Section 1 project, including any traffic controls and /or Parking & Stopping Restrictions, relying on its powers under the Christchurch City Council Traffic and Parking Bylaw 2017, Part 21, Section 319 of the Local Government Act 1974 and the Land Transport Rules - Traffic Control Devices Rule: 2004 and the Road User Rule: 2004.

Harewood Road

4.         Approves that any previously approved resolutions be revoked, in accordance with Clause 6 (2) of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, on Harewood Road from 27 metres northwest of its intersection with Chapel Street, and extending in a south easterly direction for a distance of 284 metres, pertaining to Traffic Controls (excluding speed limits), Parking and /or Stopping Restrictions, made pursuant to any Bylaw, Local Government Act, or any Land Transport Act or Rule, to the extent that they are in conflict with, or recommended to be removed in regard to the Traffic Controls, Parking and /or Stopping Restrictions described in recommendations 5-26 below.

5.         Approves the new and remaining road markings, kerb alignments, path alignments, roadway alignment and any road surface changes on Harewood Road from 27 metres northwest of its intersection with Chapel Street, and extending in a south easterly direction for a distance of 284 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

6.         Approves that a Special Vehicle Lane, in accordance with Clause 18 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, for the use of south-eastbound road users as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule: 2004, excepting pedestrians and riders of mobility devices, be installed on the northeast side of Harewood Road, commencing 27 metres northwest of its intersection with Chapel Street and extending in a south-easterly direction for a distance of 40 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

7.         Approves that, in accordance with Section 1.6 of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004, that a uni-directional Cycle Path be established on the northeast side of Harewood Road, commencing at its intersection with Chapel Street and extending in a south-easterly direction for a distance of 175 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report. This Cycle Path is for use by road users as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004 only but excepting pedestrians and riders of mobility devices, who can use the adjacent footpath.

8.         Approves that in accordance with Clause 21 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, that the path on the northeast side of Harewood Road, commencing 175 metres southeast of its intersection with Chapel Street, and extending in a south-easterly direction for a distance of 71 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report be resolved as a Shared Path. This Shared Path is for the use by the classes of road user only as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule: 2004.

9.         Approves that a Special Vehicle Lane, in accordance with Clause 18 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, for the use of south-eastbound road users as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule: 2004, excepting pedestrians and riders of mobility devices, be installed on the northeast side of Harewood Road, commencing 284 metres southeast of its intersection with Chapel Street and extending in a south-easterly direction for a distance of 10 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

10.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the stopping of all vehicles be prohibited at any time on the northeast side of Harewood Road, commencing 27 metres northwest of its intersection with Chapel Street and extending in a south-easterly direction to its intersection with Chapel Street, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

11.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the stopping of all vehicles be prohibited at any time on the northeast side of Harewood Road, commencing at its intersection with Chapel Street and extending in a south-easterly direction for a distance of 192 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

12.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the northeast side of Harewood Road, commencing at a point 192 metres southeast from its intersection with Chapel Street, and extending in a south-easterly direction for a distance of 15 metres, be reserved for Large Passenger Service Vehicles only, for the purposes of setting down or picking up passengers only, as part of  a Bus Service as defined in the Land Transport Management Act 2003, Section 5, - Bus Service,  (a) (i), only, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

13.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the stopping of all vehicles be prohibited at any time on the northeast side of Harewood Road, commencing 207 metres southeast of its intersection with Chapel Street and extending in a south-easterly direction for a distance of 35 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

14.       Approves that, in accordance with Section 6 of the Land Transport Rule – Traffic Control Devices: 2004 that a signalised roadway crossing be installed on Harewood Road, located at a point 48 metres southeast of its intersection with Chapel Street, and as detailed on Attachment A to this report. This signalised crossing is for the use by the classes of road user as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule: 2004.

15.       Approves that a Special Vehicle Lane, in accordance with Clause 18 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, for the use of north-westbound road users as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule: 2004, excepting pedestrians and riders of mobility devices, be installed on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing 54 metres southeast of its intersection with Saint James Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction for a distance of 6 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

16.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 21 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, that the path on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing 54 metres southeast of its intersection with Saint James Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction for a distance of 23 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report, be resolved as a bi-directional Shared Path. This Shared Path is for the use by the classes of road user only as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule: 2004.

17.       Approves that, in accordance with Section 1.6 of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004, a uni-directional Cycle Path be established on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing 38 metres southeast of its intersection with Saint James Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction for a distance of 161 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report. This Cycle Path is for use by road users as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004 only but excepting pedestrians and rides of mobility devices, who can use the adjacent footpath.

18.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 21 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the path on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing 10 metres southeast of its intersection with Matsons Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction to its intersection with Matsons Avenue, as detailed on Attachment A, be resolved as a bi-directional Shared Path. This Shared Path is for the use by the classes of road user only as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule: 2004.

19.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 21 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the path on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing at its intersection with Matsons Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction for a distance of 31 metres, as detailed on Attachment A, be resolved as a bi-directional Shared Path. This Shared Path is for the use by the classes of road user only as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule: 2004.

20.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 18 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, a Special Vehicle Lane for the use of north-westbound road users as defined in Section 11.1A of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule: 2004, excepting pedestrians and riders of mobility devices, be installed on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing 31 metres northwest of its intersection with Matsons Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction for a distance of 9 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

21.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the stopping of all vehicles be prohibited at any time, on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing 56 metres southeast of its intersection with Saint James Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction to its intersection with Saint James Avenue, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

22.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the stopping of all vehicles be prohibited at any time, on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing at its intersection with Saint James Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction to its intersection with Matsons Avenue, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

23.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the stopping of all vehicles be prohibited at any time, on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing at its intersection with Matsons Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction for a distance of 40 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

24.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing at a point 40 metres northwest from its intersection with Matsons Avenue, and extending in a north-westerly direction for a distance of 15 metres, be reserved for Large Passenger Service Vehicles only, for the purposes of setting down or picking up passengers only, as part of  a Bus Service as defined in the Land Transport Management Act 2003, Section 5, - Bus Service,  (a) (i), only, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

25.       Approves that, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, the parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of five minutes, on the south-western side of Harewood Road commencing at a point 69 metres northwest of its intersection with Matsons Avenue and extending in a north westerly direction for a distance of 5 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

26.       Approves that, the stopping of all vehicles be prohibited at any time, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, on the southwest side of Harewood Road, commencing 74 metres northwest of its intersection with Matsons Avenue and extending in a north-westerly direction for a distance of 31 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

Chapel Street

27.       Approves that any previously approved resolutions be revoked, in accordance with Clause 6 (2) of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, on Chapel Street from its intersection with Harewood Road, and extending in a north-easterly direction for a distance of 9 metres, pertaining to Traffic Controls (excluding speed limits) made pursuant to any Bylaw, Local Government Act, or any Land Transport Act or Rule, to the extent that they are in conflict with, or recommended to be removed in regard to the Traffic Controls described in recommendations 28-29 below.

28.       Approves the new and remaining road markings, kerb alignments, path alignments, roadway alignment and any road surface changes on Chapel Street from its intersection with Harewood Road, and extending in a north-easterly direction for a distance of 9 metres, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

29.       Approves that, in accordance with Section 4 of the Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices: 2004, the Chapel Street approach at its intersection with Harewood Road, be controlled by a Stop control, as detailed on Attachment A to this report.

Matsons Avenue

30.       Approves that any previously approved resolutions be revoked, in accordance with Clause 6 (2) of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, on Matsons Avenue from its intersection with Harewood Road, and extending in a south-westerly direction for a distance of 9 metres, pertaining to Traffic Controls (excluding speed limits) made pursuant to any Bylaw, Local Government Act, or any Land Transport Act or Rule, to the extent that they are in conflict with, or recommended to be removed in regard to the Traffic Controls described in recommendations 31-32 below.

31.       Approves the new and remaining road markings, kerb alignments, path alignments, roadway alignment and any road surface changes on Matsons Avenue from its intersection with Harewood Road, and extending in a south-westerly direction for a distance of 9 metres, as detailed on Attachment A.

32.       Approves that in accordance with Section 4 of the Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices: 2004, that the Matsons Avenue approach at its intersection with Harewood Road, be controlled by a Stop control, as detailed on Attachment A.

Saint James Avenue

33.       Approves that any previously approved resolutions be revoked, in accordance with Clause 6 (2) of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017, on Matsons Avenue from its intersection with Harewood Road, and extending in a south-westerly direction for a distance of 8 metres, pertaining to Traffic Controls (excluding speed limits) made pursuant to any Bylaw, Local Government Act, or any Land Transport Act or Rule, to the extent that they are in conflict with, or recommended to be removed in regard to the Traffic Controls described in recommendations 34-35 below.

34.       Approves the new and remaining road markings, kerb alignments, path alignments, roadway alignment and any road surface changes on Matsons Avenue from its intersection with Harewood Road, and extending in a south-westerly direction for a distance of 8 metres, as detailed on Attachment A.

Approves that, in accordance with Section 4 of the Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices: 2004, the Matsons Avenue approach at its intersection with Harewood Road, be controlled by a Stop control, as detailed on Attachment A.

35.       Agrees to remove implementation of the raised platform west of Matsons Avenue and east of Chapel Street from the detailed traffic resolutions and as reflected in Attachment A.

Councillor Templeton/Councillor Coker                                                                                                          Carried

 

18. Surface Flooding Reduction Programme - First Projects

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00309

Officer Recommendations accepted without change

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Surface Flooding Reduction Programme - First Projects Report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as medium significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Approves the initiation of the first projects proposed under the Surface Flooding Reduction Programme:

a.         Flockton Street Area - Stormwater Pump Station

b.         Bells Creek – Stormwater Pump Station and Overland Flow Controls

c.         Greenpark – Stormwater Network Upgrades

d.         Emmet Orcades - Stormwater Network Upgrades and Diversion

4.         Notes that the initiation of further projects under the Programme will occur through Annual Plan and Long-Term Plan preparation.

Deputy Mayor/Councillor Coker                                                                                                                          Carried

 

 

 

Councillor Templeton left the meeting at 12.30 pm during consideration of Item 19 and did not return.

 

 

19. Hearings Panel Report to the Council on the Dog Control Policy and Dog Control Bylaw 2025

 

Council Comment

1.         Councillor Henstock introduced Item 19 as Chairperson of the Hearings Panel.

2.         The Hearings Panel Recommendations were Moved by Councillor Henstock and Seconded by Deputy Mayor Cotter.

3.         Councillor Fields proposed an amendment (refer Resolution 7) regarding a dedicated dog exercise area in Diamond Harbour. With the agreement of the Mover and Seconder, this amendment was incorporated into the Original Motion.

4.         The Motion, incorporating the proposed amendment was then voted on and declared carried.

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00310

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Hearings Panel Report to the Council on the Dog Control Policy and Dog Control Bylaw 2025 Report.

2.         Adopts the Dog Control Policy 2025 at Attachment A, including the following changes made as a result of submissions and staff advice: 

a.         Adding a date when the policy comes into force (3 November 2025);

b.         Amending section 3.1.1 to align with the bylaw and make it clear that if a dog is unable to consistently and quickly respond to commands, it must be leashed in public places, whether a leash is required or not;

c.         Adding an explanatory note to section 6.1.3, to note that the prohibition does not apply to organised Council events designed for dogs at Council swimming or paddling pools;

d.         Amending the summary of general leashed areas in section 6.2 to reflect a title change;

e.         Amending section 6.2.2 so that the title is “On all paths in greenspace areas” and replacing the text to align with the bylaw wording;

f.          Amending 6.2.6 to explain that leashing on sports fields applies to the active playing area (and within five metres of it), but does not apply in other areas or at other times;

g.         Adding a new section (9.7) to provide advice on protecting dog paws during the heat;

h.         Adding an explanatory note to section 9.8 to enable the Animal Services Manager to waive certain requirements for approved events designed for dogs or the inclusion of dogs; and

i.          Amending entries in Schedule 1 of the Dog Control Policy 2025 in the following ways:

i.          Amending the dog control status of HMNZS Steadfast (Lyttelton) from “Leashed” to “Leashed/Under effective control” and amending the description in relation to required dog controls to require leashing only during events;

ii.         Adding a dog control status and definition for Hoon Hay Scenic Reserve (Governor’s Bay) requiring that dogs are leashed in the eastern area to protect grazing stock;

iii.        Amending the dog control status of The Groynes from “leashed” to “leashed/under effective control” and amending the description in relation to required dog controls to enable dogs unleashed access to the river and track alongside the dog park;

iv.        Amending the description of Kaputone Confluence Conservation Park to Kaputahi Confluence Conservation Park;

v.         Amending the comments of the description of Styx Mill Conservation Reserve (excluding the west end and dog park) to enable leashed dogs access on specified paths;

vi.        Amending the dog control status of the Styx Mill Conservation Reserve - west end to allow dogs to be off leash on the open field area near the dog park;

vii.       Amending the comment of the description of the Te Ihutai Avon Heathcote Estuary by including the words “roost” and “moult”;

viii.      Amending the dog control status of the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor from “prohibited / leashed / under effective control” to “leashed / under effective control”, and amending the comment to require leashing everywhere except in mown grass areas, other than former roads closed to motor vehicles and to add clarifications about former roads and access to the river from mown areas;

ix.        Simplifying the entry title for the Central City and amending the comment of the description by deleting the proposed removal of the leashing requirement for Latimer Square and Rauora Park (to retain leashing), and excluding the Avon Loop from the Central City entry so that it is covered by the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor entry (meaning dogs may be under effective control in mown areas, but must be leashed elsewhere);

x.         Amending the entry title of Te Kuru Wetlands by adding the words “including Milns, Eastman, Sutherlands and Hoon Hay basins”; and

xi.        Adding a new section to clarify that dogs are prohibited in specified reserves managed by the Council but not within the Council’s district.

3.         Adopts the Dog Control Bylaw 2025 at Attachment B, including the following changes made as a result of submissions and staff advice: 

a.         Amending clause 1 to specify the date the bylaw comes into force (3 November 2025);

b.         Adding definitions to clause 4 for “formed track”, “greenspace areas” and “path” to support the clause requiring leashing on paths in greenspace areas;

c.         Adding an explanatory note after clause 5(4) to clarify that the maximum limit on the number of dogs a person can take into a public place also applies at dog parks and in dog exercise areas;

d.         Adding an explanatory note after clause 8(C) so that the prohibition does not apply to organised Council events designed for dogs at Council swimming or paddling pools;

e.         Amending the title of clause 9(B) to “All paths in greenspace areas”, and amending the clause to remove the reference to “short leash” and replace “footpaths, shared paths, and formed tracks” with “all paths” to simplify the clause;

 

f.          Replacing the explanatory note to clause 9(B) to provide clarification about the application of the clause; and

g.         Amending clause 9(F) so that the requirement to leash dogs on sports fields applies only to the active playing area (and within five metres of it) while games or practice sessions are underway, and clarifying that dogs may be under effective control outside of the area and at other times.

4.         Determines that the Dog Control Bylaw is the most appropriate way of addressing the issue of dog control, is the most appropriate form of bylaw and does not give rise to any New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 implications, pursuant to section 155 of the Local Government Act 2002.  

5.         Approves that staff are authorised to correct any typographical errors and to make minor changes to the policy and bylaw, including but not limited to updating policy numbers and ensuring consistency between the policy and bylaw.

6.         Approves the following recommendations from the Hearings Panel, provided in addition to the proposed policy and bylaw: 

a.         That staff review animal management services to ensure alignment with the revised policy and bylaw so that dog registration fees are adequate to respond to the new regulations (including compliance monitoring, education and enforcement activities) ahead of the next annual plan process;

b.         That staff update or install new signage to support the implementation of the replacement policy and bylaw;

c.         That staff update and improve the online map that reflects the dog controls in schedule 1 of the Dog Control Policy so that it is up-to-date and clear;

d.         That staff explore opportunities to encourage dog owners to undertake training for their dogs to better improve dog control in public places;

e.         That information about the replacement Dog Control Policy and Bylaw and other helpful online information is sent to dog owners as part of the dog registration process;

f.          That staff develop an online application for the dog limit exemption process;

g.         That staff explore whether there are any opportunities to install rubbish bins in key locations to support dog owners picking up after their dogs;

h.         That staff investigate options for a dog park, dog exercise area or other fenced area where dogs can be exercised off-leash in the Central City, to encourage and support inner-city living;

i.          That staff investigate options for a dog exercise area in Diamond Harbour;

j.          That staff investigate implementing an innovative communications pilot programme (including signage) to support behaviour change and education for dog owners; and

k.         That staff investigate ways to improve education and owner responsibility around dog fouling.

7.         Requests staff investigate options for a dedicated dog exercise area in Diamond Harbour that includes community engagement as soon as practicable following implementation of the Dog Control Bylaw 2025 and report back within six months.

Councillor Henstock/Councillor Fields                                                                                                             Carried

Councillor Coker requested her vote against the resolutions be recorded.

Councillor Moore requested his abstention from the vote be recorded.

 

20. Proposal from the East Christchurch Housing Trust to Rent Council Land for Community Housing

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00311

Officer Recommendations accepted without change

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Proposal from the East Christchurch Housing Trust to Rent Council Land for Community Housing Report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Authorises Officers to negotiate and enter into a ground lease of the Council property at 81 Blake Street New Brighton with the East Christchurch Housing Trust for the purposes of providing affordable housing.

4.         Notes, in accordance with s80 Local Government Act 2002 that:

a.         the proposed lease to the East Christchurch Housing Trust is inconsistent with the Council’s Leasing Council Property Policy;

b.         the reason for the inconsistency is the property is not being put to public tender because:

i.          while there may be a broader market, this market is not obvious; and

ii.         the proposal offers a direct and efficient means to advance the Council's strategic housing objectives and activate an otherwise underutilised asset, at no material cost to the Council.

c.         there is no intention that the Leasing Council Property Policy be amended to accommodate the decision.

5.         Notes that the terms of the lease will include, but not be limited, to:

a.         A nominal rental (likely $1 per year), reflecting the community benefit and minimal cost to the Council;

b.         A limited term, acknowledging the site's constraints and the relocatable nature of the housing units;

c.         The land being used exclusively for affordable, relocatable housing, consistent with the Trust’s proposal; and

d.         A condition that the Trust obtain all necessary statutory approvals and funding before commencing building on site.

Mayor/Councillor Donovan                                                                                                                                   Carried

  

21. Resolution to Exclude the Public Te whakataunga kaupare hunga tūmatanui

 

Council Resolved CNCL/2025/00312

That at 12.42 pm the resolution to exclude the public set out on pages 418 to 420 of the agenda be adopted.

Mayor/Deputy Mayor                                                                                                                                                 Carried

 

The public were re-admitted to the meeting at 12.53 pm.

 

Karakia Whakamutunga

 

Meeting concluded at 12.54 pm.

 

CONFIRMED THIS 17TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2025

 

Mayor Phil Mauger

Chairperson


6.     Valedictory - Councillor Gough

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/1832835

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Katie Matheis, Senior Democratic Services Advisor

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

Mary Richardson, Chief Executive

 

 

1.   Councillor Gough

1.1       Councillor Gough will give a valedictory speech.

 

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

There are no attachments to this report.

 


7.    New Footpaths Programme

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/1832118

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Trudy Jones, Sustainable Transport Planner
Andy Milne, Team Leader Asset Planning
Jacob Bradbury - Manager Planning & Delivery Transport

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

Brent Smith, General Manager City Infrastructure

 

 

Secretarial Note: This report was withdrawn from the 10 September 2025 Council meeting in accordance with Standing Order Section 6.8.

1.   Purpose and Origin of the Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1       The purpose of this report is to seek the Council’s approval of the logic and prioritisation of the New Footpaths Programme.

1.1.1         Staff are also seeking the Council’s approval to draw down for delivery those planned for delivery within the current LTP period (FY25-FY27).

1.2       The report follows from a Council Workshop held on 15 July 2025 to brief elected members on the new programme and the prioritisation methodology.

1.2.1         A Memo was then sent to Community Boards, asking for feedback. This has been considered.

 

2.   Officer Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the New Footpaths Programme report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as medium significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Approves the prioritisation of locations for New Footpaths as shown in Attachment A of this report.

4.         Instructs staff to begin work on delivery of locations 1 through 20 as shown in Attachment A of this report.

5.         Instructs staff to begin scoping and planning works for the following projects and report back to the relevant Community Boards ahead of the FY 27- 37 Long-Term Plan:

a.         Cashmere Road (Sutherlands to Halswell Quarry Park); and

b.         Main South Road (northern side between Woolworths and The Hub).

6.         Notes that locations for delivery in FY28-30 will be agreed as part of the next Long-Term Plan.

 

3.   Executive Summary Te Whakarāpopoto Matua

3.1       The New Footpaths programme was approved as part of the FY24-34 Long-Term Plan.

3.1.1         This aimed to address areas with missing footpaths, particularly where new subdivisions had been built, but were not linked to the existing footpath network.

3.1.2         The agreed timeline was for FY25 to be around developing the programme, before moving into delivery from FY26.

3.2       A list of candidate sites was gathered from elected members, community feedback, staff knowledge, and other sources. Each of these sites was then scored against a set of criteria.

3.2.1         The logic and sites have been presented to the Executive Leadership Team and the Council, and feedback has been sought from Community Boards.

3.2.2         The Memo to Community Boards describing this is available as Attachment C.

3.3       Feedback was received from elected members. The elements that have been most instrumental in changing the recommendations are:

3.3.1         Missing sections of footpath that had not been included in the original list: these have been included in the list, assessed against the criteria, and ranked.

3.3.2         Importance of footpaths on one side vs two sides: the original ranking did not distinguish between areas where there was a footpath on one side, compared to areas with no footpath. An option has been considered that reduces the safety risk where a footpath exists on one side of a road

3.3.3         Planning for specific high complexity projects: Cashmere Road (particularly the section from Sutherlands Road to around Spalling Road), and the northern side of Main South Road (Woolworths to The Hub), are extremely high complexity and likely high cost projects. Staff have proposed recommendations for these projects to be investigated in more detail and would report back to the relevant Community Boards in time for consideration as part of the next Long-Term Plan.

3.4       There are three options for elected members to consider for the New Footpaths programme for LTP 2024-2034.

3.4.1         Option 1: Approve the prioritisation of sites using the logic previously presented to Council and Community Boards (Attachment A). Staff are seeking approval to start delivery of the top 20 sites in FY26 & FY27.

3.4.2         Option 2: Approve the prioritisation of sites, weighted towards sites without any existing footpaths (Attachment B). Staff are seeking approval to start delivery of the top 12 sites in FY26 & FY27.

3.4.3         Option 3: Investigate further changes to the prioritisation logic before a programme for delivery in FY26 & FY27 is approved.

 

4.   Background/Context Te Horopaki

4.1       The New Footpaths Programme was included as part of the Council’s FY24-34 Long-Term Plan. While projects to link up some sections of missing footpath have been included in previous Long-Term Plans, this was the first time a programme to pro-actively identify, prioritise and deliver new footpath links has been included.

4.2       Staff have provided the following information:

4.2.1         A Council Information Session was held on 15 July 2025

·     Agenda: https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2025/07/ISCC_20250715_AGN_9968_AT.PDF

·     Recording: https://councillive.ccc.govt.nz/meeting/15-07-25-new-footpath-programme/

4.2.2         A Memo was sent to the Community Boards, covering the candidate identification and prioritisation methodology, and addressing questions from the Information Session. To avoid duplication, the Memo to the Community Boards is included here as Attachment C.

Community Board Feedback

4.3       A Community Board resolution in relation to a separate project (the Wigram/Hayton intersection project) has resulted in the inclusion of Wigram Road (southside, from new Ngā Puna Wai accessway towards Musgrove Close).

4.3.1         Using the recommended option, this is included in the first tranche

4.3.2         Using the alternative list, this is not included in the first tranche

4.4       Questions around the ownership and development of properties along Sutherlands Road mean that staff are no longer excluding the section from Muirhill Street to Glendore Drive.

4.4.1         This has been ranked for delivery in both options.

4.5       Feedback on the Programme was sought from the Community Boards. This included a number of candidates that had not previously been ranked. These have now been included in the long list.

4.5.1         Lower Styx Road has not been ranked for delivery in the first tranche

4.5.2         Beach Road (Akaroa) has not been ranked for delivery in the first tranche

4.6       The general Community Board feedback has been summarised into the following points with staff responses provided as follows:

4.6.1         Staff were asked to reconsider whether special consideration should be made to routes where there was only one way in and out of a specific community.

·     Staff response: The roading hierarchy and expected levels of service for pedestrians in that environment is a key determinant. The methodology also emphasised latent demand by population density and destinations within a 1km walking catchment. As such a lengthy rural road with few adjacent residents or destinations is not prioritised as highly as a missing section of footpath in a higher density residential environment.

4.6.2         Staff were also asked to include further candidates including those emerging as a result of evolving subdivision and development progress.

·     Staff response: Staff recommendations remain the same in relation to the methodology and combination of weightings applied in order to assess and rank new footpath candidates for the Long Term Plan. Ongoing network changes are accounted for in that any new emerging candidates can and will be captured and analysed using the prioritisation assessment process on semi-regular basis in order to update the programme accordingly.

4.6.3         Staff were asked regarding the sources of potential candidates and the methodology applied for prioritising candidates.

·     Staff response: Potential candidates from all known sources; area engineers, internal and external requests, Long Term Plan and Annual Plan feedback, community boards, and Council resolutions have been collated. All potential candidates were assessed and reviewed using the same multi factorial criteria to determine metropolitan priorities.

·     The type of street within the roading hierarchy, operational speeds and traffic volumes together make up the largest percentage weighting for safety. Destinations and populations were quantified within the immediate walking catchment of the potential candidate to ensure delivery meets the needs of the maximum number of users. Deliverability considerations included both technical and costing feasibility to ensure the programme best reflects value for money delivering maximum benefit per population demand.

4.6.4         Staff were asked if roads with an existing footpath should be ranked in the same way as those with no footpath.

·     Staff response: A second option has been developed that seeks to take this into account. For any sections where there is an existing footpath, the “Safety” risk score has been halved. This has resulted in a number of areas with no footpath provision gaining a higher priority.

4.7       Changes to the prioritisation criteria to take account of other factors (eg lack of alternative routes for a community) will take significant time to decide on an appropriate scoring mechanism, gather data, and then score each site.

4.7.1         If the Council provides information on other factors that they would like to be considered these can be investigated and evaluated, and staff will provide more information and an updated prioritisation ahead of the next Long Term Plan.

Options Considered Ngā Kōwhiringa Whaiwhakaaro

4.8       The following reasonably practicable options were considered and are assessed in this report:

4.8.1         Option One: Approve new footpath programme using original logic.

4.8.2         Option Two: Approve new footpath programme weighted towards areas with no footpath provision.

4.8.3         Option Three: Investigate further changes to the prioritisation of the programme.

4.9       The following options were considered but ruled out:

4.9.1         Option Three: Do nothing - This was ruled out because the outcome of this option would be not to deliver a project which the Council has approved funding for.

Options Descriptions Ngā Kōwhiringa

4.10    Preferred Option: Option One: Approve new footpath programme using original logic.

4.10.1       Option Description:

·     The Council approves the prioritisation of new footpaths as detailed in Attachment A of this report.

·     The Council approves the top ranked 20 locations to progress to delivery in the current period.

·     Any new emerging candidates can and will be captured and analysed using the prioritisation assessment process. This will be used to update the programme on a semi-regular basis, to ensure that the highest priority locations are approved for delivery. It is expected that the next approval of the delivery programme will be incorporated in the Council’s next Long Term Plan.

4.10.2       Option Advantages

·     Allows delivery to progress in the current Financial Year.

·     Improves levels of service for walking in line with One Network Framework roading hierarchy expected levels of service and provides a robust evidence based approach to analysing prioritised demand for footpath infrastructure over the duration of the Long-Term Plan.

·     Flexibility to adjust the program to accommodate new and emerging candidates through the same prioritisation process.

4.10.3       Option Disadvantages

·     Some locations with particular risks may be ranked lower as the prioritisation method does not reflect the specific site conditions (e.g., existing footpath provision, sites with higher levels of tourists)

·     Does not allow for other factors (e.g., interim measures, shared facilities) to be considered

4.11    Alternative Option: Option Two: Approve new footpath programme where areas with no footpath provision are weighted higher.

4.11.1       Option Description:

·     The Council approves the prioritisation of new footpaths as detailed in Attachment B of this report.

·     The Council approves the top ranked 12 locations to progress to delivery in the current period.

·     Any new emerging candidates can and will be captured and analysed using the prioritisation assessment process. This will be used to update the programme on a semi-regular basis, to ensure that the highest priority locations are approved for delivery. It is expected that the next approval of the delivery programme will be incorporated in the Council’s next Long-Term Plan.

4.11.2       Option Advantages

·     Allows delivery to progress in the current Financial Year.

·     Improves levels of service for walking in line with One Network Framework roading hierarchy expected levels of service and provides a robust evidence based approach to analysing prioritised demand for footpath infrastructure over the duration of the Long-Term Plan.

·     Flexibility to adjust the program to accommodate new and emerging candidates through the same prioritisation process.

·     Prioritises adding some footpath provision where there currently is none.

4.11.3       Option Disadvantages

·     May result in lower risk rural sites being prioritised over higher risk urban sites.

·     Some locations with particular risks may be ranked lower as the prioritisation method does not reflect the specific site conditions (e.g., sites with higher levels of tourists).

·     Does not allow for other factors (e.g., interim measures, shared facilities) to be considered.

4.12    Alternative Option: Option Three – investigate changes to the prioritisation of the programme.

4.12.1       Option Description:

·     That staff look at changes to the prioritisation, and therefore programme.

·     This would likely require a workshop with the Council in the new term, before information is provided in a further report to the Council.

4.12.2       Option Advantages

·     May ensure that the Council and Community Board wishes for the programme are better served.

·     Would provide opportunities for other factors to be considered (e.g., shared facilities, interim measures, etc).

4.12.3       Option Disadvantages

·     Further re-assessment of the prioritisation would delay implementation. It is likely that delivery would not start in the current Financial Year.

5.   Financial Implications Ngā Hīraunga Rauemi Capex/Opex Ngā Utu Whakahaere

 

Recommended Option

Option 2 – logic weighted towards areas with no footpath provision

Option 3 – investigate changes

Cost to Implement

$20.5M over 10 years

$20.5M over 10 years

$20.5M over 10 years

However, implementation will be delayed by 6 months or more and will mean that few (if any) projects will start delivery in the FY26 financial year.

Maintenance/Ongoing Costs

No significant maintenance costs in the first three years

No significant maintenance costs in the first three years

No significant maintenance costs in the first three years

Funding Source

CPMS 75051 Programme – New Footpaths (LTP 2024-2034)

CPMS 75051 Programme – New Footpaths (LTP 2024-2034)

CPMS 75051 Programme – New Footpaths (LTP 2024-2034)

Funding Availability

Yes

Yes

Yes

Impact on Rates

Within existing budgets

Within existing budgets

Within existing budgets

 

6.   Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro

Risks and Mitigations Ngā Mōrearea me ngā Whakamātautau

6.1       All usual design and construction risks apply.

6.2       The specific designs proposed in each location will remain subject to public consultation and approvals through the delegated body (typically the relevant Community Board(s)).

Legal Considerations Ngā Hīraunga ā-Ture

6.3       Statutory and/or delegated authority to undertake proposals in the report:

6.3.1         Decisions relating to approval to progress programme agreed to be funded under LTP can be made by the Council.

6.3.2         The designs for each location will require approval by the delegated body (typically the relevant Community Board).

6.4       Other Legal Implications:

6.4.1         There is no legal context, issue, or implication relevant to this decision.

Strategy and Policy Considerations Te Whai Kaupapa here

6.5       The required decision:

6.5.1         Aligns with the Christchurch City Council’s Strategic direction in transport by pursuing the Future Transport Plan’s stated intent regarding Safe and Connected Walking Environments by ensuring that new housing development have adequate footpath connections with amenities on the wider network.

6.5.2         The recommended programme in this report is assessed as medium significance based on Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.  The level of significance was determined by the medium level of impact and medium numbers of people impacted.

6.5.3         The planned programme is consistent with Council’s Plans and Policies regarding active travel and required levels of service. This report supports;

·     The Strategic Transport Plan’s objectives for safe and connected walking environments.:

·     Transport

6.5.4         Activity: Transport

·     Level of Service: 16.0.10 Maintain the perception (resident satisfaction) that Christchurch is a walking friendly city - >=85% resident satisfaction  .

Community Impacts and Views Ngā Mariu ā-Hāpori

6.6       Considered throughout the process of developing the New Footpaths Programme. Further community engagement on specific projects arising from the program will happen on a project by project basis as these individual projects progress through the design, consultation and approval processes.

6.7       The decision affects the metropolitan area of Christchurch.

6.8       The Community Boards have been consulted regarding proposed candidates and given feedback on draft programme.

Impact on Mana Whenua Ngā Whai Take Mana Whenua

6.9       The decision does not involve a significant decision in relation to ancestral land, a body of water or other elements of intrinsic value, therefore this decision does not specifically impact Mana Whenua, their culture, and traditions.

6.10    The decision does not involve a matter of interest to Mana Whenua and will not impact on our agreed partnership priorities with Ngā Papatipu Rūnanga. The facilities proposed under this programme are to be provided within the existing roading network.

Climate Change Impact Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro mā te Āhuarangi

6.11    The decisions in this report are likely to:

6.11.1       Contribute neutrally to adaptation to the impacts of climate change.

6.11.2       Contribute positively to emissions reductions.

6.12    The delivery of the programme recommended in this report will contribute to emissions reductions with the potential to increase active modes for short trips by improving connectivity and levels of service in the walking network.

7.   Next Steps Ngā Mahinga ā-muri

7.1       Council approval of the recommended programme ensures this can go on to the delivery stage within the LTP first 3 years (FY25-27), with $17 million to deliver in the remaining 7 years (FY28-34).

7.2       The programme will be reviewed semi-regularly in order to capture changes to the transport network, changes due to ongoing development and any other new information which comes to light. This will allow Council to decide on the next priorities for delivery.

7.2.1         It is expected that the next review of the programme will happen in late 2026, to inform the projects for delivery in the next Long Term Plan period (FY28-30).

 

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.

Title

Reference

Page

a

Proposed New Footpath Programme for Approval

25/1844622

41

b

Alternative New Footpath Programme - weighted towards areas with no provision

25/1844647

51

c

Memo to Community Boards - New Footpaths Programme - 7 August 2025

25/1411056

61

 

 

In addition to the attached documents, the following background information is available:

Document Name – Location / File Link

Not applicable

 

 

 

 

Signatories Ngā Kaiwaitohu

Authors

Trudy Jones - Transport Planner Sustainable Transport

Andy Milne - Team Leader Asset Planning

Peter Rodgers - Transport Network Planner

Jacob Bradbury - Manager Planning & Delivery Transport

Approved By

Jacob Bradbury - Manager Planning & Delivery Transport

Stephen Wright - Manager Operations (Transport)

Brent Smith - General Manager City Infrastructure

 

 


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8.     Welles Street Temporary Improvements

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/692636

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Corrine Early, Senior Project Coordinator, Vertical Capital Delivery Unit
Laura Botica, Senior Planner, Urban Regeneration Team

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

John Higgins, General Manager Strategy, Planning & Regulatory Services

 

 

1.   Purpose and Origin of the Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1       The purpose of this report is to seek the Council’s approval for the proposed temporary improvements and parking changes planned for Welles Street in the Central City, between Colombo and Manchester Streets.

1.2       This project delivers on actions outlined in the South-East Central Neighbourhood Plan, adopted by the Council in 2024. It also incorporates feedback received from community members and businesses during the plan’s engagement process.

2.   Officer Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Welles Street Temporary Improvements Report.   

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Agrees that recommendations 6 to 12 below for the Welles Street Improvements project are for a maximum of a five-year period.

4.         Notes that staff will report back to the Council before the end of the five-year period as to whether the community want the improvements amended, removed or extended for an additional period of time.

5.         Revokes any previous resolutions pertaining to traffic controls made pursuant to any bylaw to the extent that they are in conflict with the parking or stopping restrictions described in resolutions 6 to 12 below.

Welles Street – South Side

 

6.         Approves that the stopping of all vehicles be prohibited at any time, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017:

a.    On the south side of Welles Street, commencing at its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of eight metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

b.    On the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 13 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street, and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of nine metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

c.    On the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 39 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of 32 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

d.    On the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 76 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of nine metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

e.    On the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 96 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for five metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

f.     On the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 125 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of 18 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

g.    On the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 161 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of 14 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

h.    On the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 192 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of 14 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

i.     On the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 219 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction to its intersection with Colombo Street, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

7.         Approves, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017 that:

a.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point eight metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of five metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

b.    A loading zone restricted to the use of Goods Vehicles only, and further restricted to a period of 5 minutes be installed, on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 22 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of seven metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

c.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 5 minutes, on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 29 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of six metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.  This restriction is to apply at any time.

d.    The parking of vehicles be restricted to Cycles only on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 35 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of four metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E. This restriction is to apply at any time.

e.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 71 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of five metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

f.     The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 85 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of 11 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

g.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 101 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of 17 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

h.    The parking of vehicles be restricted to Cycles only on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 119 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of six metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E. This restriction is to apply at any time.

i.     The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 142 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of 13 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

j.     A loading zone restricted to the use of Goods Vehicles only, and further restricted to a  period of 5 minutes be installed, on the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 155 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of six metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

k.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 175 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of 12 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

l.     The parking of vehicles be restricted to Cycles only on the south side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 185 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of five metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E. This restriction is to apply at any time.

m.   The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the south side of Welles Street commencing at a point 206 metres west of its intersection with Manchester Street and extending in a westerly direction for a distance of 13 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

Welles Street – North Side

 

8.         Approves that the stopping of all vehicles be prohibited at any time, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017:

a.    On the north side of Welles Street commencing at its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of 12 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

b.    On the north side of Welles Street commencing at a point 25 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of 21 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

c.    On the north side of Welles Street commencing at a point 84 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of 18 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

d.    On the north side of Welles Street commencing at a point 148 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of six metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

e.    On the north side of Welles Street commencing at a point 181 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of 5 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

f.     On the north side of Welles Street commencing at a point 222 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction to its intersection with Manchester, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

9.         Approves, in accordance with Clause 7 of the Christchurch City Council Traffic & Parking Bylaw 2017 that:

a.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the north side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 12 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of 13 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

b.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the north side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 46 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of 38 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

c.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the north side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 102 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of 46 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

d.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the north side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 154 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of 27 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

e.    The parking of all vehicles be restricted to a maximum period of 120 minutes, on the north side of Welles Street, commencing at a point 192 metres east of its intersection with Colombo Street and extending in an easterly direction for a distance of 30 metres, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and attached to this report as Attachment E.

10.       Approves pursuant to Christchurch City Council Traffic and Parking Bylaw 2017 and Section 334 of the Local Government Act 1974 all structures, trees, stopping restrictions, signage and road markings and the placement of street furniture on Welles Street between Colombo Street and Manchester Street, as detailed on plan TP365801, dated 14/08/2025 and included in this report as Attachment A.

11.       Approves pursuant to Section 334 of the Local Government Act 1974 the addition of parklets, Attachment F outside the following dining establishments as follows:

a.         Burger Burger, 10 Welles Street - The parklet will include public seating and landscaping. Two cycle hoops will be installed on the road between the parklet and the planter.

b.         Welder/Grizzly, 22 Welles Street which includes 13 businesses (including Kokomo and Grizzly on the street frontage) and an event space - The parklet will include public seating and landscaping. Three cycle hoops will be installed on the road between the parklet and the planter

c.         Kokomo, 24 Welles Street - The parklet will include landscaping with planting areas integrated into the parklet. It is intended that this will be an outdoor licensed dining space, and the Council will work with Kokomo on this.  

12.       Approves that these resolutions take effect when parking signage and/or road markings that evidence the restrictions described in this staff report are in place (or removed in the case of revocations).

 

3.   Executive Summary Te Whakarāpopoto Matua

3.1       The Enliven Places Capital Programme (the Programme) is a delivery tool within the Urban Regeneration team that delivers temporary placemaking solutions.  One of the programme’s themes is to support Project 8011 (Central City Residential Programme) and implementation of the South-East Central Neighbourhood Plan (SE Plan). Completing small scale placemaking initiatives can help to create a sense of place and bring together local communities to build neighbourhood identity.

3.2       The project aligns with key themes identified in the SE Plan and Project 8011 (Central City Residential Programme) including: fostering a strong sense of community, creating a healthy and green neighbourhood and improving the experience of moving through the Central City.

3.3       The Enliven Places Programme undertook engagement in October 2024 with residents and businesses along Welles Street. Feedback echoed engagement feedback on the SE Plan, with requests for a more pedestrian-friendly environment, increased greenery and enhanced public spaces to support the growing residential and commercial activity in the area.

3.4       A draft concept plan was developed in response to this feedback. Proposed improvements include the addition of temporary placemaking elements in the carriageway such as parklets, landscaping, and cycle hoops to enhance the street environment and support positive perceptions of the area.

3.5       Consultation on the draft concept plans took place in July 2025. Overall, the majority of submitters supported the plan (70%, 30 submitters), the remainder somewhat supported the plan (30%, 13 submitters) with suggestions requesting additional features – for example adding a safe crossing area, slowing traffic further and adding more landscaping – which are outside the scope of the current budget.

3.6       The temporary improvements will be in place for up to five years and can be extended if there is continued community benefit.  There is potential for this project to inform permanent street upgrades if funding is secured in the next Long Term Plan (LTP).

3.7       This project will be fully funded, delivered and maintained by the Enliven Places Programme capital budget. The Enliven Programme will have an active maintenance plan/programme for all assets. Welles Street has no funding in the current LTP.

3.8       Although the project is within the area marked Plan A (Attachment D) in the Delegations Register and would otherwise be a decision of the Parking Restrictions committee, the project’s total capital budget (including staff time) exceeds $100,000 and so a decision is required by the Council.

A map of a city

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Image 1. Map of Welles Street

 

4.   Background/Context Te Horopaki

Current context of Welles Street

4.1       Welles Street has historically been home to small to medium scale industries, including businesses such as a welding workshop and a grocery distribution centre.  Developers have repurposed many of these buildings to create a vibrant concentration of restaurants, cafes, bars, wellbeing services and hairdressers.  The street is in walking distance to many offices, commercial businesses and education facilities including, Ara Institute and Ao Tawhiti School.

4.2       In 2018, the Atlas Quarter apartments were completed adding 110 homes to the street.  A residential development is nearing completion on the north side of the street and will add a further 10 homes.  A growing number of developments within walking distance makes this street an important neighbourhood focal point. 

4.3       Several challenges exist on Welles Street including narrow footpaths, no safe pedestrian crossing, pedestrian and cyclists find vehicle speeds impact on feelings of safety, and no public seating areas.

4.4       Welles Street has limited landscaping with just 0.7% tree canopy cover; the surrounding neighbourhood has a tree canopy cover of 7.3% (2018). Many other areas of the Central City have canopy cover over 20%. The Urban Forest Plan sets out ambitions to grow the tree canopy cover across the city to improve sustainability and amenity.

4.5       Welles Street is classified as a secondary collector. It carries an average of 1,899 vehicle movements per day. The speed limit of Welles Street is 50km/h; tube count data for Welles Street shows the traffic is on average just over half this speed for both eastbound and westbound traffic. The addition of the proposed streetscape improvements into this low speed traffic environment is not considered likely to unduly impede traffic flow, particularly given the ongoing ability for two-way traffic movements along the length of the street.

 

 

4.6       Another traffic and speed count will be completed once the project is completed.

Parking Survey

P120 Car Parks

4.7       Welles Street currently has 40 unpaid on-street carparks with a 120-minute time limit. There are also a few unmarked parking spaces. There are an additional 68 paid carparks on private sites. A good provision of both free, paid and private carparking within a 200m catchment as shown in Attachment C makes it easy to visit the street by car.

4.8       A parking survey was undertaken on Thursday 24 July and Sunday 26 July 2025. This highlighted that the average parking occupancy for the P120 parking spaces on both sides of Welles Street was 88% (weekday and weekend). The average weekday occupancy rate was 91%, while the weekend average was 86%.

4.9       There were two instances where occupancy exceeded 100% on the North side of the road, as there were 23 cars counted despite there only being 22 official car parks.

4.10    On average, occupancy rates were consistently high between 9 am – 6 pm, at generally 90% or higher. This was the case for both survey dates (mid-week and weekend). Demand was lower before 9 am, particularly during the weekend with occupancy rates as low as 20%.

4.11    Due to the consistently high average occupancy rates, there were no clear patterns of peak demand. On both days, there were instances of 100% occupancy in the early afternoon, and again instances of 99% or higher between 5 pm – 5.30 pm.

A graph of a parking survey

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Project background

4.12    Submissions from residents to the current LTP and 2023/24 Annual Plan sought street improvements to upgrade the current condition of this road space.  Submissions on the South-East Central Neighbourhood Plan also mentioned the opportunity to improve Welles Street. While no funding was allocated through the LTP, the potential for interim improvements was identified by staff in the Enliven Places Programme.

4.13    This project was initiated in July 2024 and has been co-developed alongside residents and businesses on Welles Street. Early engagement in October 2024 helped to shape the features and layout of this temporary street upgrade.

Project overview

4.14    The concept plan (Attachment A) reflects community requests and includes:

·    Additional bike parking to service visitors to the businesses on Welles Street.

·    Creating pinch-points in sections of the street to slow traffic and widen the footpath to create areas for outdoor dining, seating and landscaping (Attachment F).

·    Addition of planters with landscaping.

·    Possible wayfinding signage.

·    Removal of a total of 5 carparks to accommodate the above interventions (refer to Attachment B).

 

Options Considered Ngā Kōwhiringa Whaiwhakaaro

4.15    The following reasonably practicable options were considered and are assessed in this report:

4.15.1       Option 1 – Approve all temporary improvements as per the concept plans for a period of five years (Attachment A) – preferred option.          

4.15.2       Option 2 – Although the majority of respondents support the proposed concept plan, there is the option to reduce the number of planters on the north and / or south side of the street therefore reducing the number of car park spaces to be removed.

4.15.3       Option 3 - do nothing.

4.16    The following option was also considered but ruled out:

4.16.1       In ground tree pits (permanent) is a preferred option for the health of the trees and to achieve the best tree canopy. However, this option was ruled out due to cost, the location of underground services and some flooding during significant rain events that requires more investigation and addressing through a permanent upgrade. This option could be explored if funding is secured for a full street upgrade in a future LTP.

 

Options Descriptions Ngā Kōwhiringa

4.17    Preferred Option: Approve all temporary improvements as per the concept plans for a period of five years (Attachment A).

4.17.1       Option Advantages

·     Responds to community requests and reflects the positive feedback received during consultation from the majority of businesses, residents and visitors who support the temporary improvements.

·     Creates a more attractive environment to encourage more people to want to live and visit the area.

·     Contributes to increasing greening in an area with a very low tree canopy cover.

·     Acts as traffic calming measures to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety.

·     Budget is available to provide immediate temporary upgrades, through the Enliven Places Programme, noting Welles Street is not currently identified for transport improvements in the LTP.

·     Doesn’t require permanent and more costly changes to kerb and channel or require assessment of underground services for permanent tree pits.

·     Enables further delivery on the South-East Central Neighbourhood Plan.

·     Provides for an opportunity to trial and test design outcomes that could be incorporated into a more comprehensive upgrade if funding is secured in the next LTP.

4.17.2       Option Disadvantages

·     Removes 5 x parking spaces.

·     Doesn’t respond to the one business who raised concerns about carparking removal.

·     Has a project cost (within an allocated budget).

4.18    Option 2: Approve the temporary improvements per Option 1 but reduce the number of planters on the north and / or south side of Welles Street.

4.18.1       Option Advantages

·     Reduces the number of carparks lost by reducing the number of planters from the project scope. Two planters on the south-side of the street at the entrance to Atlas Quarter could be removed from the project scope to add an extra carpark for customers without significant impact on the overall design and function of the improvements.

·     This would respond to concerns raised in a submission by local business, Balayage, and provide more carparking for visitors.

4.18.2       Option Disadvantages

·     This option is not the preferred option due to the majority support for the proposed concept plans, the existence of off-street paid parking nearby for casual visitors and the number of requests for greening on the street – refer Summary of Submissions in section 6 below. Of the eleven businesses that made a submission, only one raised concern about the removal of carparking.

·     Has a project cost (within an allocated budget), albeit slightly less than Option 1.

4.19    Option 3

4.19.1       Option Description: Do nothing.

4.19.2       Option Advantages

·     The current carparking layout remains as is, which provides more carparking space for visitors.

·     Budget would be retained and potentially used for other projects within the Enliven Places Capital Programme.

4.19.3       Option Disadvantages

·     Would not respond to the requests for action received during consultation on the LTP and on the Welles Street project.

·     Does not provide temporary improvements to Welles Street for residents and visitors, including not addressing the Council tree policy for canopy cover.

·     Does not help to slow traffic in an area with a growing number of pedestrians.

·     Does not provide seating areas for visitors to Welles Street.

·     Would not take advantage of the only current budget available to improve the environment in this location.

·     Does not enable further implementation of the South-East Central Neighbourhood Plan.

Analysis Criteria Ngā Paearu Wetekina

4.20    The options considered were determined by the project’s impact on the surrounding community and the extent to which it addresses community feedback. The project aims to provide a balance of temporary improvements to the street while minimising disruption to existing uses.

 

 

 

 

 

5.   Financial Implications Ngā Hīraunga Rauemi

Capex/Opex Ngā Utu Whakahaere

 

Recommended Option

Option 2

Option 3 – Do Nothing

Cost to Implement

$12,633 (FY25)

$158,467 (FY26)

$12,633 (FY25)

$158,467 (FY26)

 

Minus $800 per planter removed

$21,057 (costs to date as at 21 August 2025)

Maintenance/Ongoing Costs -opex

$1,500 p.a.

$1,500 p.a.

$0

Funding Source: Enliven Places Programme capital and operational budgets. CPMS 80201

 

6.   Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro

Risks and Mitigations Ngā Mōrearea me ngā Whakamātautau

6.1    Risk: parking changes

6.1.1         There is a risk that the removal of five carparks may increase pressure on parking availability and adversely affect local business operations if customers can’t access parking.

6.1.2         The parking occupancy audits – results summarised in 4.7 - 4.11 show that carparks are mostly fully occupied throughout the day.

6.2    Mitigation:

6.2.1         There is a good provision of carparks within the surrounding area as shown in Attachment C. This includes 68 privately run paid public carparks on the north side of the street available for people who visit, work or live nearby, including casual visitors.

6.2.2         The addition of cycle hoops as requested by a local business intends to help balance the loss of carparks.

6.2.3         Community engagement and feedback – these plans have been developed and informed by the community to ensure positive outcomes with the majority supportive. Many businesses have been vocal in requesting seating, landscaping and bike stands and are prepared to lose carparking to achieve this. The concept plan has been designed to minimise the loss of parking.

 

Legal Considerations Ngā Hīraunga ā-Ture

6.3    Statutory and/or delegated authority to undertake proposals in the report:

6.3.1         Although the project is within the area marked Plan A (Attachment D) in the Delegations Register and would otherwise be a decision of the Parking Restrictions committee, the project’s total capital budget exceeds $100,000 and so a decision is required by Council.

6.3.2         The installation of any signs and/or markings associated with traffic control devices must comply with the Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004.

6.3.3         There is no legal context, issue, or implication relevant to this decision

6.3.4         This specific report has not been reviewed and approved by Legal Services, however the report has been written using a general approach previously approved by Legal Services, and the recommendations are consistent with the policy and legislative framework outlined in this report.

Strategy and Policy Considerations Te Whai Kaupapa here

6.4    The required decisions:

6.4.1         Align with the Christchurch City Council’s Strategic Framework with particular emphasis on supporting the community outcome ‘A green, liveable city’.

6.4.2         Support the delivery of the:

South-East Central Neighbourhood Plan, specifically implements actions:

6a. ‘Implement public realm greening on suitable streets ahead of permanent upgrades’,

9a. ‘Investigate opportunities to enhance pedestrian routes’,

9d. ‘Investigate opportunities to implement appropriate lower speed environments’,

9g. ‘Opportunities to install secure and convenient cycle parking’ and

12e. ‘Deliver placemaking projects and initiatives in collaboration with the community to enhance the identity of the neighbourhood’;

Ōtautahi Christchurch Future Transport Plan, alignment with goal 6 ‘A vibrant, healthy and liveable city’, which focuses on the role streets have in shaping our urban environment – noting a need to continue prioritising the Central City and to enhance our streets and neighbourhoods as our city becomes more intensively developed; and

Christchurch Urban Forest Plan – as noted in section 4.4 above.

6.4.3         Are assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.  The level of significance was determined by the low cost and temporary nature of this project.

6.5       This report supports the Council's Long Term Plan (2024 - 2034):

6.6       Strategic Planning and Policy

6.6.1         Activity: City Growth and Property

·   Level of Service: 17.0.20.3 Deliver small scale temporary and permanent capital projects to support city identity, community leadership and placemaking - 100% of capital projects align with Urban Regeneration Capital  objectives.

Community Impacts and Views Ngā Mariu ā-Hāpori 

6.7       The decision affects the Waipapa Papanui-Innes-Central Community Board. A memo outlining the project was circulated to the Community Board and Councillors in July 2025; no feedback was received.

6.8       Early feedback from residents and businesses along the street was gathered in October 2024. Forty-two responses were received during the initial engagement phase, which included requests for an improved pedestrian-friendly design with reduced vehicle traffic, more greenery, and enhanced public spaces to support the increasing residential and commercial presence. The feedback helped to shape a concept plan.

6.9       The project team has been in contact with Welles Street businesses and stakeholders throughout the early feedback stages.

6.10    Formal consultation on the draft plan for Welles Street started on 9 July and ran until 28 July 2025. 

6.11    Consultation details, including links to the project information shared on the Kōrero mai | Let’s Talk webpage, were advertised via:  

·    An email to previous submitters and stakeholders.

·    A letter delivered to 110 Atlas Quarter residents.

·    The Kōrero mai | Let’s Talk page shared to the Atlas Quarter residents Facebook  group by the Chair of the Body Corporate on our behalf.

·    Doorknocking of and emailing local businesses.

6.12    The Kōrero mai | Let’s Talk page had 447 views throughout the consultation period.

Summary of submissions Ngā Tāpaetanga

6.13    Submissions were made by 11 recognised businesses/organisations and 32 individuals. All submissions are available on the Kōrero mai | Let’s talk webpage. Submissions from businesses/organisations who were directly on or backing onto Welles Street are outlined below.

·   Atlas Quarter (Body Corporate 513813) – Somewhat supported the plan as the ‘first step’ for improving Welles Street, noting they would prefer more permanent improvements. They raised concerns around future maintenance of planters. They suggested a number of additions including surveillance cameras, rubbish/recycling bins, and further improving the area for pedestrians (laneways, traffic-calming measures and lowering the speed limit).

·   Grizzly Baked Goods – Supported the plan, noting they love the idea to enliven the street and make it more pedestrian friendly. Suggested extending the outdoor dining outside Kokomo westward to provide their customers with more seating.

·   Dhi Ferrari Cakes – Supported the plan, particularly the outdoor seating which they think would add to the vibe of the area. They raised concerns about near misses with pedestrians and suggested a painted area on the street to alert motorists that people may cross.

·   TSA HD LTD t/a Balayage – Somewhat supported the plan, particularly the planting and trees. Balayage strongly opposed the removal of five car parks, noting it was ‘detrimental to business’, particularly with the increase in cost in the privately owned carparks on the street. They suggested Council reconsider the reduction in car parks.

·   Retailworld Resourcing – Supported the plan, particularly the outdoor seating and greenery. They noted the street is tight as a two-way street and needs to be improved for pedestrians.

·   MP Property – Supported the plan and provided no further feedback.

6.14    Half (52%) of individual submitters were people who visited Welles Street (16), one-quarter (26%) worked there (8), and the remaining 23% (7) lived there.

6.15    Overall, the majority of submitters supported the plan (70%, 30); the remainder somewhat supported the plan (30%, 13), suggesting further improvements to the street which are beyond scope of the current budget.

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6.16    Submitters liked:

·   The proposed outdoor seating areas (24)

·   The addition of trees and greenery to the space (20)

·   That the plans would improve the feel of the area (12)

·   The inclusion of bicycle parking (8)

·   That the plans provide a better use for the space than carparking (7)

·   That the changes will increase safety/slow traffic (4)

6.17    Submitters suggested: 

·   The inclusion of a safe pedestrian crossing area (14), whether it be a full pedestrian crossing, painted area or ‘3d street art’ on the road to indicate to motorists there may be pedestrians

·   Introducing further measures to slow traffic, including through a speed limit reduction or traffic calming measures (13)

·   Investing into more permanent measures, particularly in relation to trees (8)

·   Increasing the number of trees and planting (7)

·   Making the area safer through improved lighting or camera surveillance (4)

·   Addressing drainage issues, including levelling footpaths to reduce flooding (4)

·   Improving the area for cycling, through a cycleway or sharrows (4)

6.18    Other less-frequent suggestions included disability parking, cargo bicycle parking, and rubbish bins/recycling.

6.19    A number of suggestions (speed limit reduction, addressing flooding, pedestrian crossing or tree pits) are out of scope for the current low-cost, temporary project; however, these could be addressed through a more comprehensive full upgrade if funding was secured in the next LTP.

6.20    The detailed design of the outdoor seating areas will be informed by the submissions received and follow-up discussions with businesses.

Impact on Mana Whenua Ngā Whai Take Mana Whenua

6.21    The decision does not involve a significant decision concerning ancestral land or a body of water or other elements of intrinsic value, therefore this decision does not specifically impact Mana Whenua, their culture and traditions.

6.22    The decision does not involve a matter of interest to Mana Whenua and will not impact on our agreed partnership priorities with Ngā Papatipu Rūnanga.

Climate Change Impact Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro mā te Āhuarangi

6.23    The decisions in this report are likely to:

6.24    Contribute positively to adaptation to the impacts of climate change through the planting of more trees in an area lacking in landscaping.

6.25    Contribute positively to emissions reductions by making the street more desirable to walk and cycle.

 

7.   Next Steps Ngā Mahinga ā-muri

7.1       If the recommended option is approved, delivery is proposed during November 2025.

7.2       The project is anticipated to be in place for up to 5 years.

 

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.

Title

Reference

Page

a

Welles Street - Temporary enhancements - Concept Plan

25/1303477

81

b

Welles Street - carpark changes

25/1303480

82

c

Welles Street - location of carparks in the wider area

25/225360

83

d

Plan A - Delegations Register

25/1799097

84

e

Welles Street Signage and Road Marking Plan

25/1637333

85

f

Welles Street Parklet Concept Design

25/1822847

86

 

 

In addition to the attached documents, the following background information is available:

Document Name – Location / File Link

Not applicable

 

 

 

 

Signatories Ngā Kaiwaitohu

Authors

Corrine Early - Senior Project Coordinator

Laura Botica - Senior Planner Urban Regeneration

May Wong - Engineer - Traffic Investigations

Approved By

Stephen Wright - Manager Operations (Transport)

Mark Stevenson - Head of Planning & Consents

John Higgins - General Manager Strategy, Planning & Regulatory Services

 

 









9.     Decision on Plan Change 13 - Heritage

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/1365896

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Glenda Dixon, Senior Policy Planner
Suzanne Richmond, Heritage Advisor (Planning)
Darren Bridgett, Team Leader City Planning

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

John Higgins, General Manager Strategy, Planning & Regulatory Services

 

 

1.   Purpose and Origin of the Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1       The hearings for Plan Change 13 – Heritage took place on 17 and 18 June 2025. The Hearings Panel’s (Commissioners Ken Gimblett, David Caldwell and Heike Lutz) recommendations, which are provided as Attachment A, were received on 1 September 2025. The purpose of this report is to present those recommendations and for the Council to decide whether to adopt or reject them (with limited further options as described in the report).

 

2.   Officer Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Council:

1.         Receives the Panel report and recommendations on Plan Change 13 – Heritage.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as medium significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Withdraws from Plan Change 13 the notified deletion of the “scale of activity” exemption in Appendix 9.3.7.4 from the 40m2 limit for permitted non-residential activity in heritage items under Rule 14A6.1 P8.

EXCEPT FOR THE PROVISION IN RECOMMENDATION 3 ABOVE, EITHER:

4.         Adopts the recommendations of the Hearings Panel on Plan Change 13 (Heritage) under clause 10 of Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act 1991, for the reasons set out in the Hearings Panel’s report as outlined in Attachment A of this report.

 

OR

 

5.         Rejects the recommendations of the Hearings Panel regarding Antonio Hall and agrees to remove Antonio Hall and its setting from the heritage schedule under clause 10 of Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act 1991, for the reasons expressed in the Council decision on Antonio Hall in Plan Change 14;

AND

6.         Except for Antonio Hall and its setting, adopts the recommendations of the Hearings Panel on Plan Change 13 (Heritage) under clause 10 of Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act 1991, for the reasons set out in the Hearings Panel’s report as outlined in Attachment A of this report.

 

3.   Executive Summary Te Whakarāpopoto Matua

3.1       The Hearings Panel recommended that the Plan Change be adopted with the provisions as put forward in the Council’s Right of Reply, with the following key changes:

3.1.1         Rugby Park to be deleted from the Church Property Trustees/North St Albans Residential Heritage Area.

3.1.2         Scheduling of the Former Quarry Stables, 79 Bamfords Road, Allandale, Governors Bay.

3.1.3         Reduced protection for Antonio Hall, 265 Riccarton Road - heritage item limited to the chapel only as Highly Significant, and removal of the setting.

3.1.4         Removal of protection for Daresbury heritage item and setting, 9 Daresbury Lane.

3.2       The position of the Council at the hearing was that Antonio Hall and Daresbury heritage items and settings should not be scheduled in the District Plan. That position reflected the decisions of Council in PC14. The Council’s neutral independent experts provided their opinions to the Panel, which favoured retention of the two items in the heritage schedule.

3.3       The Panel recommendation reflects the Council position for Daresbury but not for Antonio Hall. For Antonio Hall, the Council position was that none of the buildings or their setting should be scheduled, however Council’s expert evidence favoured retaining protection for the accommodation wing, motor house and chapel. The Panel’s recommendation is to keep only the chapel, with no setting.

3.4       The Council’s decision on the Panel recommendations is in a quasi-judicial process that the Resource Management Act requires for plan changes. The Panel had the benefit of hearing and seeing submissions and evidence. Council can ask the Panel questions about its recommendations but should not replace its decision for that of the Panel without having another hearing of a disputed recommendation. 

3.5       Antonio Hall may be an exception to that usual principle. For Antonio Hall, the Council may prefer to make a decision that has regard to the Panel’s recommendations but is consistent with its PC14 decision to recommend that all of Antonio Hall and its setting be removed from the heritage schedule, despite that not being the opinion of the Council’s experts or the recommendation of the Panel.

“Scale of activity” exemption error

3.6       On a separate matter, the Council made an error in deleting an exemption for “scale of activity” limits in Rule Appendix 9.3.7.4 and Rule 14A6.1 P8 as part of the notified plan change.  The error was that the notified plan change described this change as having no substantive effect. The Panel recommendation to delete the exemption is on the express basis that the change has no substantive effect. That reason is incorrect insofar that the change has a substantive effect. Officers recommend that the Council withdraw that deletion of the exemption from the plan change as it proceeded on a flawed basis.   

 

4.   Background/Context Te Horopaki

4.1       Plan Change 13 as notified:

4.1.1         Introduced 11 new Residential Heritage Areas (RHA) with an associated policy and rules framework.

4.1.2         Amended the schedule for heritage items and settings (individual sites protected in Appendix 9.3.7.2 of the district plan) by:

· adding protection for new heritage items, heritage settings and interiors of new and existing heritage items

· updating protection for existing heritage items and settings to reflect changes on sites such as implemented subdivision and land use consents, and

4.1.3         Amended controls for heritage items and settings already protected in the district plan by making a range of minor changes to the policy and rules framework, including strengthening of some rules and relaxation or simplification of others.

5.   Notification and Submissions Received

5.1       Plan Change 13 (Heritage) was jointly notified with Plan Change 14 (Business and Housing Choice) on 17 March 2023. The changes to heritage provisions, which applied to heritage sites and RHAs within the urban area were duplicated in both plan changes, as heritage is a qualifying matter.

5.2       Submissions and further submissions closed on 12 May 2023 and 17 July 2023 respectively. The Council received 76 submissions in relation to RHAs and 19 further submissions opposing or supporting the decisions requested on RHAs. In relation to heritage items, 53 submissions were received and 18 further submissions.  

5.3       Plan Change 13 was put on hold pending decisions on Plan Change 14.

5.4       A few (mostly duplicate) submissions which were omitted from the original notification of submissions on Plan Change 13 were notified on 29 March 2025 for further submissions. This resulted in 7 further submissions.

Decisions already made

5.5       On 18 September 2024 and on 2 December 2024 the Council made decisions on some heritage sites and RHAs in the context of Plan Change 14.

5.6       On 11 December 2024, the Council made decisions in relation to Plan Change 13 to withdraw some notified provisions where decisions had been made in Plan Change 14. Decisions were also made to withdraw some other notified provisions from PC 13, being the Heaton Street and Piko/Shand RHAs, the Blue Cottage (32 Armagh Street) from the Inner City West RHA, the area specific built form standards (all RHAs), interface rules for RHAs (where relevant); and the Yaldhurst Memorial Hall proposed heritage item and setting.

5.7       Further to direction given by the Council on 11 December 2024 to review the spatial extent of the notified Lyttelton RHA, decisions were made (on 16 April and 4 June 2025) to withdraw some properties from that RHA, primarily on its periphery, and to withdraw further notified provisions where decisions had already been made in Plan Change 14. These related to height and interface provisions for New Regent Street and the Arts Centre, and mapping corrections in respect of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.

5.8       The remaining provisions of Plan Change 13, with submissions on those provisions, were heard on 17 and 18 June 2025.

Hearing Panel Recommendation

5.9       The Panel’s recommendation is that the Plan Change be adopted as recommended in the Council’s section 42A reports and right of reply, subject to a small number of amendments.

5.10    The Panel endorsed the introduction of the nine RHAs. These are: Chester St East/Dawson St, Inner City West, Church Property Trustees North St Albans, Englefield/Avonville, Wayside Avenue, RNZAF Station Wigram Staff Housing, Shelley St/Forbes St, Macmillan Avenue, and Lyttelton RHAs. 

5.11    It also endorsed nearly all of the provisions put forward by the Council and summarised in 4.1.2 and 4.1.3 above in relation to items and settings, and minor changes to the heritage policy and rules framework.  The amendments the Panel recommended are as follows:

5.11.1       Rugby Park to be deleted from the Church Property Trustees North St Albans Residential Heritage Area. The Panel considered that Rugby Park had a long history in CRFU ownership of being adjacent rather than integral to the RHA, and unlike Malvern Park, Rugby Park offered no public, unrestricted access that would link it to neighbourhood recreational activities, nor is its function predominantly associated with the residential neighbourhood today.

5.11.2       Scheduling of the Former Quarry Stables, 79 Bamfords Road, Allandale, Governors Bay. The stables building meets the significance threshold for scheduling, but was not put forward by Council officers on the basis that the owner had not confirmed their support.  The Panel does not favour the practice of not scheduling where the only factor against that outcome is the absence of owner support.

5.11.3       Reduced protection for Antonio Hall, 265 Riccarton Road, to limit the heritage item to the chapel only, and removal of the setting. The Panel was of the opinion that both the accommodation wing and the motor house no longer possess the physical integrity required to be retained on the schedule. However they accepted engineering and heritage technical evidence that the chapel was able to be repaired. They considered that it warrants Highly Significant status as the most intact surviving element of the complex, which therefore assumes greater prominence in conveying the strong associative values with the Catholic Church’s period of ownership.

5.11.4       Removal of protection for Daresbury heritage item and setting, 9 Daresbury Lane. The Panel accepted that the homestead was nationally significant and could be repaired and continue to meet the threshold for scheduling. However, they considered the weighing of public good versus private cost to be “very finely balanced” in this case. The Panel accepted the submitter’s evidence that the realisable value of the repaired homestead, including associated land value if it were to be on-sold, would be significantly less than the cost of repair, and that in terms of a more end-use focussed scenario, it was not financially reasonable or appropriate to continue to schedule the property.

Options Considered Ngā Kōwhiringa Whaiwhakaaro

5.12    The Local Government Act requirement that Council decision-making consider options, and their advantages and disadvantages, is subject to the requirements of the Resource Management Act. The Resource Management Act has a process for notifying plan changes, submissions, reports, evidence and a hearing. That is the process in which the options for the content of the district plan, and the advantages and disadvantages of those options, are considered. No further consideration of options is appropriate. The Plan Change 13 record and the Panel recommendations on it discuss the relevant options in the manner required by the Resource Management Act.

5.13    However, for Plan Change 13 there are exceptions to that regarding Antonio Hall and the error described in paragraph 3.6 above.

5.14    The evidence and submissions regarding Antonio Hall are described in the Panel recommendation report. Council can either:

(a)          rely on the Panel’s assessment and accept the Panel recommendation to retain the scheduling of part of the item, or

(b)          having regard to both the Panel recommendation and the Council’s previous assessment of the issue in PC14, reject the Panel recommendation and delete the scheduling for Antonio Hall and its setting. 

5.15    There are several process options available to the Council to address the flaw in the reasoning for the notified plan change provision and the Panel’s recommendations described in paragraph 3.6 above. Those process options are:

(a)      Reject the Panel recommendation and leave the exemption in the Plan;

(b)      Withdraw that part of the plan change; or

(c)       Not make a decision on that provision yet. This would involve explaining to the Panel the flaw in the Council’s description of the reason for the notified plan change, and asking the Panel whether its recommendation changes in the knowledge that deleting the exemption does have a substantive effect.

5.16    Officers prefer the option of withdrawing that deletion of the exemption from the plan change. That is preferred to breaching the 17 September 2025 deadline for completing decision making on this plan change – which will happen if the Council did not yet make a decision on that provision - and is preferable to a rejection decision that could be subject to appeal to the Environment Court.

6.   Financial Implications Ngā Hīraunga Rauemi

Capex/Opex Ngā Utu Whakahaere

 

Recommended Option

Cost to Implement

Within existing budget for Planning

Maintenance/Ongoing Costs

Nil

Funding Source

Within existing budget for Planning

Funding Availability

Funded in LTP

Impact on Rates

No additional impact beyond LTP

 

6.1       The costs of staff time on Plan Change 13 have been assumed in the budgets of the Planning and Consents Unit as part of the Annual Plan and Long-Term Plan.

6.2       The only ongoing costs could be in relation to any appeals received on this decision. While appeals are possible, they are not considered likely.

7.   Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro

Risks and Mitigations Ngā Mōrearea me ngā Whakamātautau

7.1       The Council is statutorily required to have an operative District Plan at all times. Issues have been identified with the heritage provisions of the District Plan which will be addressed through this Plan Change. Therefore, the risk of not acting is considered greater than the risk of acting.

7.2       The decision-making period for Plan Change 13 has been extended by the Ministry for the Environment. It expires on 17 September 2025. The Council would likely need to seek a further extension for decision making if it does not decide on all of the Panel recommendations on that date.

 

Legal Considerations Ngā Hīraunga ā-Ture

7.3       Statutory and/or delegated authority to undertake proposals in the report:

7.3.1         The Resource Management Act 1991 s73(1A) enables the Council to prepare a change to its District Plan at any time, and to progress that plan change through the process set out in Schedule 1 of the Act. In the case of PC 13, the Plan Change has been carried out through the standard RMA process. PC 13 is sufficiently advanced that the “Plan Stop” changes to the RMA do not apply to PC 13. 

7.3.2         The Council may adopt the recommendations of a Hearing Panel on a Plan change, as its decision.

7.3.3         Submitters will have the right to appeal to the Environment Court.

7.4       Other Legal Implications:

7.4.1         The Hearings Commissioners’ recommendations report appropriately addresses the impact of the RHAs and heritage items as qualifying matters that limit implementation of the medium density residential standards.

7.4.2         This report has been reviewed and approved by Legal Services.

 

Strategy and Policy Considerations Te Whai Kaupapa

7.5       The required decision:

7.5.1         Aligns with the Christchurch City Council’s Strategic Framework in supporting and protecting the heritage and culture of the City.

7.5.2         Is assessed as medium significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.  The level of significance was determined by the number of affected parties, and the level of impact on those affected.

7.5.3         Is consistent with the Council’s “Our Heritage, Our Taonga Heritage Strategy (2019-2029)” which seeks a strong regulatory framework to ensure effective protection of significant and highly significant heritage places, and a broadened range of heritage places and areas.

7.5.4         The decision is consistent with Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act and consistent with the Council’s Plans and Policies to enable public participation and engagement.

7.6       This report supports the Council's Long Term Plan (2024 - 2034):

7.7       Strategic Planning and Policy

7.7.1         Activity: Strategic Planning and Resource Consents

·     Level of Service: 1.4.3.1 Provide heritage advice to support Resource Management Act statutory processes- 95% of advice provided within statutory timeframes

·     Level of Service: 9.5.1.6 Prepare plan changes to the District Plan to address issues and to implement national and regional direction, identified as a high priority by Council - Providing Council an annual update on progress with plan changes  

Community Impacts and Views Ngā Mariu ā-Hāpori

7.8       Given the time that has elapsed since notification in 2023, there has now been considerable opportunity for residents to ask questions about the Plan Change and express their views, both formally through submissions and further submissions and informally through such mechanisms as the dedicated plan change email address.

7.9       Heritage rules have immediate legal effect under s86B of the RMA. Two years of experience with processing resource consents in Residential Heritage Areas including demolition applications and applying the amended rules framework for heritage items and settings has informed the recommendations of Council planning witnesses in their s42A reports.

7.10    The decision affects all the Community Boards in the City.

Impact on Mana Whenua Ngā Whai Take Mana Whenua

7.11    The decision does not involve a significant decision in relation to ancestral land or a body of water or other elements of intrinsic value, therefore this decision does not specifically impact on Mana Whenua, their culture and traditions.

7.12    Māori heritage values are specifically addressed in Chapter 9.5 of the District Plan – Ngāi Tahu values and the natural environment.

Climate Change Impact Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro mā te Āhuarangi

7.13    The decisions in this report are likely to:

7.13.1       Contribute positively to adaptation to the impacts of climate change, and

7.13.2       Contribute positively to emissions reductions, as a result of 7.14 below.

7.14    Retention and reuse of existing building stock, rather than demolition and new construction, reduces the city’s carbon footprint and extends the economic life of heritage buildings.

8.   Next Steps Ngā Mahinga ā-muri

8.1       The Council’s decision on the Panel recommendations on Plan Change 13 will be publicly notified, with information provided on rights of appeal. The appeal period for plan change decisions is 30 working days, so if the decision was notified on the 24 September, the appeal period would expire on 6 November.  

8.2       If no appeals are received at the end of this period, staff would report the Plan Change to the Council for final approval, then notify the date on which the Plan Change would become operative. Final approval of changes to the District Plan is one of the functions that cannot be delegated to staff under the RMA, meaning that this final approval decision will need to be made by the incoming Council after the local body elections. This delay would not affect administration of the plan change provisions, as section 86F of the RMA means that rules are effectively operative once the appeal period has passed and there are no appeals.

8.3       If appeals are received, final approval of the Plan Change cannot occur until the appeals are resolved.

 

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.

Title

Reference

Page

a

Plan Change 13 - Hearing Panel's Report and Recommendations (Under Separate Cover)

25/1769978

 

 

 

In addition to the attached documents, the following background information is available:

Document Name – Location / File Link

Not applicable

 

 

 

 

Signatories Ngā Kaiwaitohu

Authors

Glenda Dixon - Senior Policy Planner

Suzanne Richmond - Heritage Advisor

Darren Bridgett - Team Leader City Planning (E)

Brent Pizzey - Senior Legal Counsel

Approved By

Mark Stevenson - Head of Planning & Consents

John Higgins - General Manager Strategy, Planning & Regulatory Services

 

 


10.   Governance Matters

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/534330

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Simone Gordon, Democratic Services Advisor

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

Mary Richardson, Chief Executive

 

 

1.   Purpose and Origin of the Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1       The purpose of this report is to seek approval from the Council on key governance matters before the current term ends. It responds to statutory requirements under the Local Government Act 2002 and aims to ensure continuity of decision-making and operational effectiveness during the election period.

1.2       Specifically, the report recommends retaining certain governance bodies beyond the election and delegating authority to the Chief Executive to make urgent decisions during the interim period, between the declaration of election results and the incoming elected members being sworn into office.

1.3       This is a standard process applied at the end of each triennial.

 

2.   Officer Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Governance Matters Report.

2.         Notes that the decisions in this report are assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Approves, under clause 30(7) of Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002, that the committees, subcommittees, subordinate decision-making bodies, and joint committees listed in Attachment A are not discharged on the coming into office of the members of the Council elected or appointed at, or following, the October 2025 triennial general elections, and they continue to exercise the delegations made to them.

4.         Authorises the Chief Executive, subject to the limitations set out in clause 32(1) of Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002, to make decisions on behalf of the Council and community boards during the period between the declaration of election results and elected members being sworn into office, in respect of urgent matters and, where the Mayor-elect is known, in consultation with the Mayor-elect.

 

3.   Executive Summary Te Whakarāpopoto Matua

3.1       This report seeks to address governance matters that need to be resolved before the conclusion of the current council term.

3.2       This report outlines the statutory requirements and recommended actions regarding the continuation of Council committees, subcommittees, subordinate decision-making bodies and joint committees following the election. This includes retaining certain entities beyond the election period to ensure continuity, as these would otherwise be automatically discharged under the Local Government Act 2002 (see Attachment A).

3.3       There is a need to provide for the possibility that urgent decisions may need to be made during the interim period between the declaration of election results and the swearing-in of elected members. It is proposed to authorise the Chief Executive to make urgent decisions on behalf of Council and community boards during the interim period, in consultation with the Mayor-elect, if known.

 

4.   Background/Context Te Horopaki

Committees, subcommittees, other subordinate decision-making bodies

4.1       The power to appoint committees, subcommittees, other subordinate decision-making bodies, and joint committees is contained in clause 30 schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002.

4.2       Under clause 30 of Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002, all committees, subcommittees, subordinate decision-making bodies, and joint committees are deemed to be discharged following the election, unless the Council resolves otherwise.

4.3       The standing committees of the current Council will be deemed to be discharged following the election.  The new committee structure will be confirmed early in the next term.

4.4       Staff have reviewed existing entities and identified several that should not be discharged; these are listed in Attachment A.  To ensure continuity of governance and decision-making, the report recommends that Council formally resolves to retain these specified entities beyond the election period.

4.5       The Council has previously resolved that the Christchurch Urban Design Panel (CNCL/2017/00078), Infrastructure Design Standards Steering Group (CNCL/2016/00483), Greater Christchurch Partnership Committee and the Whakawhanake Kāinga Committee (CNCL/2022/00026) are not discharged following triennial general elections. These entities will continue after the election. 

Urgent decisions during election period

4.6       Due to the interim period between the declaration of election results and elected members being sworn into office, it is proposed that the Chief Executive be delegated authority to make urgent decisions during this time, in consultation with the Mayor-elect, if known. This delegation will be subject to the general limits on delegations in clause 32(1) of Schedule 7.

4.7       Current elected members will vacate office when the members elected at the upcoming elections come into office (section 116(1) Local Electoral Act 2001). Candidates who are elected come into office on the day after the day on which the official result of the election is declared by public notice (section 115(1) Local Electoral Act 2001).  The Electoral Officer advises that the notice is expected to be published sometime around 19 October 2025.

4.8       However, the Local Government Act 2002 (cl.14 Schedule 7) provides that a person may not act as a member of the Council until they have made an oral declaration and signed a written declaration.  The form of the declaration is set out in clause 14(3).  The declaration must be made at a Council meeting following the elections and is ordinarily made at the inaugural meeting of the Council following the elections. 

4.9       Subject to when the election results are declared and published, along with confirmation of the date for the inaugural Council meeting, there may be a period of up to 2 weeks in which decisions of the Council are unable to be made.

Options Considered Ngā Kōwhiringa Whaiwhakaaro

4.10    The following reasonably practicable options were considered and are assessed in this report:

4.10.1 The Council accepts the outlined governance recommendations – this is the recommended option.

4.10.2 The Council declines the outlined governance recommendations.

4.11    Preferred option: the Council accepts the governance recommendations in this report.

4.11.1 Option description: Resolve to not discharge the specified committees, subcommittees, other subordinate decision-making bodies and joint committees, and authorise the Chief Executive to make urgent decisions on behalf of Council during the interim period between the declaration of election results and elected members being sworn into office.

4.11.2 Option advantages

·     The recommendation to resolve to continue the specified committees etc. supports effective and timely decision-making and helps maintain strong working relationships with neighbouring local authorities, particularly in relation to joint committees.

·     Authorising the Chief Executive to make decisions on behalf of the Council ensures that appropriate provisions are in place for urgent decision-making, helping to maintain the Council’s effectiveness and support its ability to respond efficiently to urgent matters, should they arise.

4.11.3 Option disadvantages

·     Public perception of reduced transparency may arise if the Chief Executive makes urgent decisions on behalf of elected members of the Council.

4.12   Option 2: The Council declines to accept the outlined governance recommendations – not recommended.

4.12.1 Option description: All committees, subcommittees, subordinate decision-making bodies and joint committees are discharged at the end of the current term, and the Chief Executive is not authorised to make urgent decisions on behalf of Council during the interim period between the declaration of election results and elected members being sworn into office.

4.12.2 Option advantages:

·     Decisions would be made by elected members, and when made in open meetings, the public can be assured of transparency in the process.

4.12.3 Option disadvantages:

·     A number of joint committees operate in partnership with neighbouring local authorities and are governed by long-standing, agreed terms of reference and other arrangements. If the Council were to discharge these committees, it could trigger the need to revisit and renegotiate those arrangements—creating unnecessary administrative work and potentially straining effective working relationships with neighbouring councils.

·     Re-establishing routine decision-making bodies, such as the District Licensing Committee, would place an unnecessary administrative burden on staff resources.

·     Urgent decisions could be delayed and need to wait until the swearing in of elected members following the election, which would hinder the Council’s ability to respond efficiently and effectively to urgent matters.

5.   Financial Implications Ngā Hīraunga Rauemi

Capex/Opex / Ngā Utu Whakahaere

5.1       Cost to Implement – There are no costs to implement the decisions in this report.

5.2       Maintenance/Ongoing costs – There are no ongoing costs from making these decisions.

5.3       Funding Source – not applicable.

6.   Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro

Risks and Mitigations Ngā Mōrearea me ngā Whakamātautau

6.1       Staff have recommended that it is desirable to carry over the committees, subcommittees, other subordinate decision-making bodies, and joint committees as set out in Attachment A after the triennial election to mitigate any risk to the Council’s effectiveness.

6.2       Delegating the Council’s decision-making powers to the Chief Executive during the period between the declaration of election results and swearing in of the incoming Council ensures that any urgent decisions can still be made in conjunction with the Mayor-elect should this be required.

Legal Considerations Ngā Hīraunga ā-Ture

6.3       Statutory and/or delegated authority to undertake proposals in the report:

6.3.1   Clause 30(7) of Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002 provides that a committee, subcommittee, or other subordinate decision-making body is, unless the local authority resolves otherwise, deemed to be discharged on the coming into office of the members of the local authority elected or appointed at, or following, the triennial general election of members next after the appointment of the committee, subcommittee, or other subordinate decision-making body.

6.3.2   Clause 32 of Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002 provides that:

Unless expressly provided otherwise in this Act, or in any other Act, for the purposes of efficiency and effectiveness in the conduct of a local authority’s business, a local authority may delegate to a committee or other subordinate decision-making body, community board, or member or officer of the local authority any of its responsibilities, duties, or powers except—

(a) the power to make a rate; or

(b) the power to make a bylaw; or

(c) the power to borrow money, or purchase or dispose of assets, other than in accordance with the long-term plan; or

(d) the power to adopt a long-term plan, annual plan, or annual report; or

(e) the power to appoint a chief executive; or

(f)  the power to adopt policies required to be adopted and consulted on under this Act in association with the long-term plan or developed for the purpose of the local governance statement; or

(g) [Repealed]

(h) the power to adopt a remuneration and employment policy..

6.4       Other Legal Implications:

6.4.1   The proposed delegations to the Chief Executive do not infringe the restrictions in the Local Government Act 2002. 

6.4.2   This report has been reviewed by Legal Services.

Strategy and Policy Considerations Te Whai Kaupapa here

6.5       The required decisions:

6.5.1   Align with the Christchurch City Council’s Strategic Framework.

6.5.2   Are assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.  The level of significance was determined by the fact that the decisions relate to administrative matters.

6.5.3   Are consistent with Council’s Plans and Policies.

6.6       This report supports the Council's Long Term Plan (2024 - 2034):

6.7       Governance

6.7.1   Activity: Governance and Decision-Making

·     Level of Service: 4.1.28.3 Governance processes are maintained and published on the Website that ensure statutory compliance - 1  

Community Impacts and Views Ngā Mariu ā-Hāpori

6.8       Urgent decisions made by the Chief Executive outside of a public Council meeting may create a perception of a lack of transparency. However, such decisions will only be made when the matter is urgent and cannot reasonably wait until the swearing in of the new Council. This risk is also somewhat mitigated by any urgent decisions being made in consultation with the Mayor-elect, if known.

Impact on Mana Whenua Ngā Whai Take Mana Whenua

6.9       The decisions in this report do not involve a significant decision in relation to ancestral land, a body of water or other elements of intrinsic value, therefore this decision does not specifically impact Mana Whenua, their culture, and traditions.

6.10    The decisions do not involve a matter of interest to Mana Whenua and will not impact on our agreed partnership priorities with Ngā Papatipu Rūnanga.

Climate Change Impact Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro mā te Āhuarangi

6.11    The proposals in this report are unlikely to contribute significantly to adaptation, the impacts of climate change or emissions reductions.

7.   Next Steps Ngā Mahinga ā-muri

7.1       The specified committees, subcommittees, subordinate decision-making bodies and joint committees will not be discharged at the end of the current term and remain active.

7.2       Should any urgent matters arise during the transition period between the declaration of results and elected members being sworn into office, the Chief Executive will be authorised to make decisions in respect to urgent matters on behalf of the Council, in consultation with the Mayor-elect, if known.

 

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.

Title

Reference

Page

a

List of committees, subcommittees, other subordinate decision-making bodies and joint committees to continue after the election 2025

25/1705066

102

 

 

In addition to the attached documents, the following background information is available:

Document Name – Location / File Link

Not applicable

 

 

 

 

Signatories Ngā Kaiwaitohu

Author

Simone Gordon - Democratic Services Advisor

Approved By

Megan Pearce - Manager Democratic Services

Helen White - General Counsel / Director of Legal & Democratic Services

Mary Richardson - Chief Executive

 

 



11.   Amendments to the Register of Delegations

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/815866

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Naomi Soper - Senior Legal Counsel

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

Helen White, General Counsel / Director of Legal & Democratic Services

 

 

1.   Purpose and Origin of the Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1       The purpose of this report is to provide for some amendments to delegations from the Council to the Chief Executive, from the Council to staff and from the Council to Community Boards and an Officer sub-committee.

1.2       The report has been written because only the Council can resolve to provide for these delegations.

 

2.   Officer Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Amendments to the Register of Delegations Report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Relying on clause 32 of Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002 and for the purposes of efficiency and effectiveness in the conduct of the Council’s business and any other applicable statutory authority, amends the delegations register in Parts A, B and D as shown in Attachment A of this report to:

a.         reflect title changes or changes in positions; and

b.         delegate responsibilities, duties and powers to staff resulting from the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Act 2025, alongside other minor amendments; and

c.         remove the Diamond Harbour and Districts’ Health Support Group and the Banks Peninsula Pest Liaison Committee from the Te Pātaka o Rākaihautā Banks Peninsula Community Board’s powers of appointment.

4.         Notes that these delegations above take effect on the date of this resolution, and Legal Services will update the Delegations Register accordingly.

 

3.   Executive Summary Te Whakarāpopoto Matua

3.1       Part A of the Council’s delegations register contains the Council’s statutory and other delegations to the Chief Executive.  The Chief Executive is then able to sub-delegate those responsibilities, duties and functions to staff as she sees fit (subject to any express exclusions).  These sub-delegations are set out in Part C of the Delegations Register. 

3.2       Part B of the Council’s delegations register contains the Council’s statutory and other delegations to officers because, for the most part, the law does not allow for sub-delegations of these matters.

3.3       Part D of the delegations register contains the delegations from the Council to community boards, committees, and other subordinate decision-making bodies. 

3.4       The proposed amendments to the delegations are sought to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Council processes.

 

4.   Background/Context Te Horopaki

 

Parts A, B and D

Change of job title – Head of Legal and Democratic Services to Director Legal and Democratic Services

4.1       The Head of Legal and Democratic Services title has changed to Director Legal and Democratic Services.  The Council has:

4.1.1   delegated matters relating to the settlement of claims to the Chief Executive on the condition the Head of Legal and Democratic Services approves the settlement (Part A, Sub-part 4 – other matters, of the register); and

4.1.2   provided the Head of Legal with certain powers under the Resource Management Act 1991 (Part B, Sub-part 1 – legislative delegations); and

4.1.3   listed the role in Part B, Sub-part 3 – other matters, of the register; and

4.1.4   delegated the Head of Legal to the Council’s Procurement Rules Departure Staff Subcommittee (Part D, Sub-part 5 – Officer Subcommittee, of the register). 

4.2       The changes proposed reflect the change in title.  Similar changes will then be sought from the Chief Executive in relation to Part C of the register.

 

Part B

Updates to reflect changes in positions – Local Government (Rating) Act 2002

4.3       Under Part B- sub-part 1 – legislative delegations, the Council has delegated various staff with certain powers under the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, including to the Rates Revenue Manager[1] and Team Leader Rates.  The amendments update the register to reflect changes to those roles. 

4.4       The position of Rates Manager now replaces Team Leader Rates, and Group Treasurer has assumed the responsibilities of the previous Rates Revenue Manager role.  Similar changes will then be sought from the Chief Executive in relation to Part C of the register. 

 

Updates required by the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Act 2025 (the amendment Act) and minor amendments to existing delegations

4.5       The Government has decided on a three-phase work programme to reform the resource management system. This will culminate in the repeal of the Resource Management Act 1991 and its replacement with new legislation based on the enjoyment of property rights and focused on managing material environmental effects. The replacement resource management system would establish two Acts. One would manage the environmental effects arising from activities and the other would enable urban development and infrastructure.

4.6       The amendment Act forms the legislative component of the second phase (the first phase involved repealing the Natural and Built Environment Act 2023 and Spatial Planning Act 2023 in December 2023.) Its objective is to make targeted changes to the Resource Management Act 1991 that can be progressed quickly and have an effect in the short to medium term.

4.7       The amendment Act includes new consenting provisions such as, an ability to return an application if the applicant does not respond to a request for information, suspension of processing while the applicant and any submitters review draft conditions, and a new processing timeframe for specified energy or wood processing applications. 

4.8       It is proposed that delegations relating to these functions in Part B – sub-part 1 – legislative delegations, sit with senior planning staff, in line with other existing delegations (Senior Planner, Principal Advisor Resource Consents, Planning Team Leader, Manager Resource Consents, and Head of Planning and Consents).

4.9       Other minor amendments to the existing delegations include:

4.9.1   the role of Principal Advisor – Resource Consents, also having the authority remit the whole or part of a charge under section 36AAB (alongside the General Manager Strategy, Planning & Regulatory Services, Head of Planning and Consents, Manager Resource Consents, Team Leader Planning); and

4.9.2   providing a Planning Technician with the same powers as provided to the role of planner or consultant planner.

 

Part D

 Appointments

Removal of appointment for the Diamond Harbour and Districts’ Health Support Group

4.10    Formed in 1992, the Diamond Harbour and Districts Health Support Group Inc. (“the Group”) exists to organise and maintain health support services for residents, both permanent and temporary, within Diamond Harbour and surrounding districts. The Group also aims to promote community involvement in local health services and improve access to available support.

4.11    The Group owns the Diamond Harbour Health Centre, located on land leased from the Council in central Diamond Harbour. The Centre is subleased to health professionals operating as the Diamond Harbour Medical Practice.

4.12    In 2023, the Group updated its rules, including changes to the composition of the Executive, removing the requirement for a representative from the Christchurch City Council.  Accordingly, this appointment under Part D – Sub-Part 1 – Community Boards, can now be removed from the register.

 

Removal of appointment for the Banks Peninsula Pest Liaison Committee

4.13    The Banks Peninsula Pest Liaison Committee is now the Biosecurity Advisory Group.  It is a community advisory group for ECAN to support the delivery of ECAN’s biosecurity programme. 

4.14    The terms of reference for the Biosecurity Advisory Group now requires a Christchurch City Councillor and a staff member as part of the Committee.  Given this, the community board no longer needs to appoint a board member or other person to the Committee.  Accordingly, this appointment under Part D – Sub-part 1 – Community Boards, can now be removed from the register.  A report will be provided to the Council in the new Triennium regarding appointment of a Councillor and staff member to the Group.   

 

Options Considered Ngā Kōwhiringa Whaiwhakaaro

4.15    The other alternative option that was considered, but not selected as the preferred option, is not making the above changes to the delegations.  This is not a reasonably practicable option. This would not promote efficiency and effectiveness in the Council’s decision-making.

5.   Financial Implications Ngā Hīraunga Rauemi

5.1       Cost to Implement – The changes to the delegations will be entered in the Delegations Register by Legal Services.

5.2       Maintenance/Ongoing costs – There are no outgoing costs from making these changes to delegations.  In relation to certain proposed changes, there are also anticipated savings in staff time in having delegations sit at the appropriate level.

5.3       Funding Source – Staff time in implementing the changes to the Delegations Register is met out of the Legal and Democratic Services’ budget.

6.   Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro

Risks and Mitigations Ngā Mōrearea me ngā Whakamātautau

6.1       Conditions and limitations are included in the above delegations where appropriate.

Legal Considerations Ngā Hīraunga ā-Ture

6.2       Statutory and/or delegated authority to undertake proposals in the report:

6.2.1   Clause 31 of Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002 provides that

Unless expressly provided otherwise in this Act, or in any other Act, for the purposes of efficiency and effectiveness in the conduct of a local authority’s business, a local authority may delegate to a committee or other subordinate decision-making body, community board, or member or officer of the local authority any of its responsibilities, duties, or powers except—

(a)       the power to make a rate; or

(b)       the power to make a bylaw; or

(c)        the power to borrow money, or purchase or dispose of assets, other than in accordance with the long-term plan; or

(d)       the power to adopt a long-term plan, annual plan, or annual report; or

(e)        the power to appoint a chief executive; or

(f)         the power to adopt policies required to be adopted and consulted on under this Act in association with the long-term plan or developed for the purpose of the local governance statement; or

(g)       [Repealed]

(h)       the power to adopt a remuneration and employment policy.

 

6.3       The proposed changes to the delegations also do not infringe the restrictions in the Local Government Act 2002.

6.4       This report has been written by Legal Services.

Strategy and Policy Considerations Te Whai Kaupapa here

6.5       The required decisions:

6.5.1   Align with the Christchurch City Council’s Strategic Framework.

6.5.2   Are assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.  The level of significance was determined by considering the criteria in the Significance and Engagement Policy.

6.6       This report supports the Council's Long Term Plan (2024 - 2034):

Governance

Activity: Governance and Decision-Making

·     Level of Service: 4.1.28.3 Governance processes are maintained and published on the Website that ensure statutory compliance - 1  

Community Impacts and Views Ngā Mariu ā-Hāpori

6.7       The benefits to the community include efficient and effective decision-making by the Council by having decisions made at the appropriate level.  

Impact on Mana Whenua Ngā Whai Take Mana Whenua

6.8       The decision is not a significant decision in relation to ancestral land, a body of water or other elements of intrinsic value, therefore this decision does specifically impact Mana Whenua, their culture, and traditions.

6.9       The decision is not a matter of interest to Mana Whenua and will not impact on our agreed partnership priorities with Ngā Papatipu Rūnanga.

Climate Change Impact Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro mā te Āhuarangi

6.10    The proposals in this report are unlikely to contribute significantly to adaptation to the impacts of climate change or emissions reductions.

7.   Next Steps Ngā Mahinga ā-muri

7.1       Legal Services will update the Register of Delegations.

 

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.

Title

Reference

Page

a

Attachment A: relevant sub-parts of Parts A, B and D of the delegations register showing the proposed amendments for Council meeting 17 September 2025 (Under Separate Cover)

25/1786345

 

 

 

In addition to the attached documents, the following background information is available:

Document Name – Location / File Link

Not applicable

 

 

 

 

Signatories Ngā Kaiwaitohu

Author

Naomi Soper - Senior Legal Counsel

Approved By

Helen White - General Counsel / Director of Legal & Democratic Services

Mary Richardson - Chief Executive

 

 


12.   Council submission: Local Government Commission - Standardised Code of Conduct

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/1801708

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Helen White, General Counsel / Director of Legal & Democratic Services

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

Mary Richardson, Chief Executive

 

 

1.   Purpose and Origin of the Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1       The purpose of this report is to seek the Council’s approval to submit feedback on the Local Government Commission’s draft Standardised Code of Conduct (the draft Code) and delegate authority to the Chief Executive to finalise the submission, including making any necessary amendments.

1.2       The Local Government Commission (the Commission) is inviting feedback on the draft Code, with the deadline for feedback set for Friday, 26 September 2025.

 

2.   Officer Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information contained the report titled the Council submission: Local Government Commission - Standardised Code of Conduct Report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report has been assessed as having low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Agrees to lodge the Council’s submission on the draft Standardised Code of Conduct and delegates authority to the Chief Executive to approve any further amendments to the submission as required (Attachment A of this report).

 

3.   Executive Summary Te Whakarāpopoto Matua

3.1       The Minister of Local Government (the Minister) has tasked the Commission with developing a standardised code of conduct for local authorities.  The Commission is due to report back to the Minister by 20 December 2025.

3.2       The Commission’s Terms of Reference state:

3.2.1         “The Minister’s priorities in developing a standardised code of conduct include highlighting freedom of speech for elected members, democratic decision making, and conflict management principles, while not restricting council decision-making.

The purpose of developing the model code of conduct is to provide consistency and certainty to the sector about their roles, responsibilities, and professional standards”.

3.3       The Commission is currently inviting feedback on the draft Code with submissions due by Friday, 26 September 2025. Staff have prepared a draft submission (Attachment A) for the Council’s consideration.

 

4.   Background/Context Te Horopaki

4.1       The Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill (the Bill) introduced on 15 July 2025 included provisions for the development of a standardised Code of Conduct for all local authorities. The Council submitted feedback on the Bill on the 27 August 2025, which included the following observations regarding the proposed standardised Code:

4.1.1         “The provisions that strengthen transparency and accountability are generally supported, but the Council notes that, in regard to a new code of conduct and standing orders, there is a lack of detail about how these are being developed. It is critical that there is a meaningful opportunity for councils to provide input into these processes, particularly regarding standing orders.”

4.1.2         “The Council also has an effective code of conduct in place. It is hard to comment on the impact of a new standardised and binding code of conduct without knowing the details of the new code. An effective code of conduct will need to set out clear and unambiguous expectations that facilitate professional and cooperative behaviour, and outline how code violations are to be managed.”

4.1.3         “Regarding both the code of conduct and standing orders, there is little information about how these are being developed. As each council is uniquely positioned, it critical that there is a meaningful opportunity for councils to provide input into any proposed standing orders to ensure good decision-making is not undermined due to a lack of engagement.”

Summary

4.2       The Commission has identified that the draft Code aims to:

·   Prioritise constructive and proactive dispute resolution before making complaints.

·   Give opportunity for early resolutions and early off-ramps for complaints.

·   Provide for complaints to be largely dealt with independently by an investigator rather than in-house, including giving investigators decision-making of sanctions.

·   Balance the needs of natural justice (enabling a member to properly defend themselves against a complaint) versus ensuring the safety of complainants.

·   Satisfy public interest (as recognised in LGOIMA) and accountability of elected members, while maintaining right to privacy under the Privacy Act.

·   Balance between an absolute right to freedom of expression with the need to use that freedom responsibly.

·   Minimise the role of Chief Executives in the process.

·   Allow the public to lodge complaints.

4.3       The Commission has also identified that the following topics are out of scope of the draft Code and relate to the work the Department of Internal Affairs is undertaking:

·   Penalties and sanctions.

·   Control over staff behaviour.

·   Disqualification from office as a potential penalty.

·   Creation of offences.

Summary of submission

4.4       The draft Council submission on the Commission’s proposed Standardised Code of Conduct highlights three key themes:

4.4.1         The need for expectations to reflect a higher ethical standard

4.4.2         Concerns regarding the clarity of the expectations as currently drafted

4.4.3         Suggested revisions to the proposed complaints process.

Expectations and Behaviours

4.5       The Council’s current Code of Conduct outlines expected behaviours of elected members, with reference to key ethical values.  These values act as a reference point for the remainder of the Council’s Code.   The draft submission draws a comparison with the Cabinet Manual.

4.6       The draft submission raised concerns that the language in the draft standardised code allows for ambiguity.  The submission recommends that expectations be sufficiently clear so that there is no room for doubt about what the expectations are.  One approach suggested is to incorporate a reference framework based on ethical principles, similar to the Council’s current code. Additional suggestions are made to improve readability and accessibility.

4.7       Additional points are included to emphasise the importance of safeguarding information and to propose an alternative method of determining which Council policies apply to elected members.

Complaints process

4.8       Under the proposed Code all complaints would automatically be referred to an external investigator who would undertake a preliminary assessment of whether a breach may have occurred or whether the matter should be subject to full investigation.  The draft Code outlines the factors that are relevant to this assessment and proposes that the investigator’s decision is final.

4.9       The Council’s draft submission notes that there will be an unknown cost to the Council if all complaints are automatically referred to an external investigator.

4.10    Under the Council’s current code the preliminary assessment is undertaken by the Chief Executive in consultation with the Mayor and often results in the matter being resolved informally without the need for a formal investigation.  The draft submission suggests that this preliminary stage be undertaken by the Chief Executive.

4.11    Under our current Code of Conduct a full formal investigation is undertaken by an external investigator.  This process is broadly reflected in the draft Code and is supported in the draft submission.

4.12    However, the draft Code proposes that the external investigator determine the appropriate sanction.  The draft submission recommends that decisions on sanctions remain with the Council.

Conflicts of Interest

4.13    The draft Code includes a proposal to require elected members to withdraw from participation when advised of a conflict of interest.   Failure to comply may expose the Council to legal and reputational risk.  Under the draft Code, a failure to withdraw in these circumstances would be considered a serious breach of the code leading to investigation.  This provision is supported in the Council’s draft submission.

 

Reform

4.14    The draft submission notes that there is a need for legislative reform in relation to availability of sanctions and to clarify the legal obligations related to conflicts of interest.

4.15    The draft submission is provided as Attachment A.

4.16    The following related information session/workshops will have taken place for the members of the meeting:

Date

Subject

16/09/2025

Council Workshop regarding the draft submission

 

Options Considered Ngā Kōwhiringa Whaiwhakaaro

4.17    The option considered as the most reasonably practicable is that the Council provides feedback to the commission on the draft code.

4.18    The Council routinely makes submissions on proposals which may significantly impact Christchurch residents or Council business. Submissions are an important opportunity to influence thinking and decisions through external agencies’ consultation processes.

4.19    The alternative option would be to not submit. This course of action is not recommended in this case, as the Council would forgo an opportunity to provide feedback on the draft code which applies to the conduct of all elected members.

5.   Financial Implications Ngā Hīraunga Rauemi

Capex/Opex Ngā Utu Whakahaere

 

Recommended Option

Option 2 – Not to submit

Cost to Implement

Met from existing operational budgets.

No cost

Maintenance/Ongoing Costs

No cost

No cost

Funding Source

Met from existing operational budgets.

No cost

Funding Availability

Available

No cost

Impact on Rates

No impact on rates.

No cost

 

However, it should be noted that should the draft Code of Conduct become mandatory that there will be financial implications to cover the cost of the external investigator.

6.   Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro

Risks and Mitigations Ngā Mōrearea me ngā Whakamātautau

6.1       The decision to lodge a council submission is low risk.

Legal Considerations Ngā Hīraunga ā-Ture

6.2       Statutory and/or delegated authority to undertake proposals in the report:

6.2.1         Any person or organisation can submit on the draft code during the process.

6.3       Other Legal Implications:

6.3.1         There is no legal issue or implication relevant to this decision.

6.3.2         The Director of Legal and Democratic Services has led development of the draft submission.

Strategy and Policy Considerations Te Whai Kaupapa here

6.4       The required decision:

6.4.1         Aligns with the Christchurch City Council’s Strategic Framework.

6.4.2         Is assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.  This recognises that the specific decision (to lodge a submission) is of a lower level of significance.

6.4.3         Is consistent with the Council’s Plans and Policies.

6.5       This report does support the Council's Long Term Plan (2024 - 2034).

Community Impacts and Views Ngā Mariu ā-Hāpori

6.6       The decision of the Council to make a submission does not directly impact the community and community views have not been sought by staff. 

6.7       As the code applies to all elected members, staff sought feedback from community board members by email on Friday 5 September 2025. No feedback was received.

Impact on Mana Whenua Ngā Whai Take Mana Whenua

6.8       The decision does not involve a significant decision in relation to ancestral land, a body of water or other elements of intrinsic value, therefore this decision does not specifically impact Mana Whenua, their culture, and traditions.

6.9       The decision to make a submission involves matters of interest to Mana Whenua and will not impact on our agreed partnership priorities with Ngā Papatipu Rūnanga.

6.10    Section 8 of the draft Code contains principles of how Members are expected to operate and make decisions in manner that recognises and respects the significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

6.11    Views on these matters were provided by the Council’s Treaty Partnerships Team and are reflected in the submission.

Climate Change Impact Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro mā te Āhuarangi

6.15    A decision to make a Council submission on the draft code is unlikely to contribute the impacts of climate change or emissions reductions.

7.   Next Steps Ngā Mahinga ā-muri

7.1       Subject to approval, the Chief Executive will make any required changes and lodge the submission with the Commission on Friday 26 September 2025.

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.

Title

Reference

Page

a

Draft Council Submission - LGC Standardised Code of Conduct

25/1849659

115

b

Draft standard code of conduct

25/1802050

120

 

 

In addition to the attached documents, the following background information is available:

Document Name – Location / File Link

·    Local government codes of conduct consultation

·    Commission Draft Standard Code of Conduct

·    Commission Terms of Reference 

·    Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill.

 

 

 

Signatories Ngā Kaiwaitohu

Authors

Helen White - General Counsel / Director of Legal & Democratic Services

Samantha Kelly - Team Leader Democratic Services Support

Approved By

Mary Richardson - Chief Executive

 

 





















13.   Council submissions process during the 2025 local elections

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/1389072

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Sharna O’Neil, Policy Analyst Strategic Policy

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

John Higgins, General Manager Strategy, Planning & Regulatory Services

 

 

1.   Purpose and Origin of the Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1       The purpose of this report is to seek the Council’s direction on the management of submissions to external agencies during local elections. There is a significant amount of central government consultation expected over this period.

 

2.   Officer Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Council submissions process during the 2025 local elections Report.

2.         Notes that the decision in this report is assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3.         Delegates approval to the Chief Executive for submissions to external agencies made during the period between the last substantive Council meeting of the electoral term and the first substantive Council meeting of the new term.

 

3.   Executive Summary Te Whakarāpopoto Matua

3.1       The Council expects several significant central government consultations in the second half of 2025.

3.2       Following the last substantive Council meeting of the local electoral term and before the first meeting of the new electoral term, staff will not be able to bring submissions to external agencies to a Council meeting for approval.

3.3       Staff are seeking the Council’s agreement to delegate submission approval to the Chief Executive, during this period.

 

4.   Background/Context Te Horopaki

4.1       The Council regularly makes submissions to other organisations such as central government agencies, Parliament’s select committees, and regional councils.

4.2       Two types of submissions are prepared. Staff submissions are generally on consultations that are technical, have operational impacts and where there is an approved Council position. Council submissions are often on significant issues or new policy approaches that need the Council to determine a position.

4.3       Consultations expected to be released in the second half of this year include the:

4.3.1         Natural Environment Bill

4.3.2         Planning Bill

4.3.3         Local Government (Infrastructure Funding) Bill

4.3.4         Infrastructure Funding and Financing Amendment Bill

4.3.5         Emergency Management Bill

4.3.6         National Adaptation Framework

4.4       While exact consultation dates are unknown, staff need an agreed approach to submissions following the final Council meeting of the term.

Options Considered Ngā Kōwhiringa Whaiwhakaaro

4.5       The following reasonably practicable options were considered and are assessed in this report:

4.5.1         Preferred option: Delegate to the Chief Executive to approve submissions to external agencies during the period between the last substantive Council meeting of the term and the first substantive Council meeting of the new term.

4.5.2         Alternative option: The Council does not make submissions to external agencies during this period.

Options Descriptions Ngā Kōwhiringa

4.6       Preferred Option: Delegate to the Chief Executive to approve submissions to external agencies during the period between the last substantive Council meeting of the electoral term and the first substantive Council meeting of the new term.

4.6.1         Option Advantages

·     Staff will be able to provide feedback on important legislation that impacts our sector.

4.6.2         Option Disadvantages

·     Elected members will not be involved in the submission process.

4.7       Alternative option: The Council does not make submissions to external agencies that would normally go through the Council during the period between local electoral terms.

4.7.1         Option Advantages

·     None identified.

4.7.2         Option Disadvantages

·     The Council will miss opportunities to provide feedback and insights on key legislation that impacts our organisation and sector.

5.   Financial Implications Ngā Hīraunga Rauemi

Capex/Opex Ngā Utu Whakahaere

 

Recommended Option

Alternative Option

Cost to Implement

Existing operational budgets.

Existing operational budgets.

Maintenance/Ongoing Costs

Existing operational budgets.

Existing operational budgets.

Funding Source

Existing operational budgets.

Existing operational budgets.

Funding Availability

Existing operational budgets.

Existing operational budgets.

Impact on Rates

Existing operational budgets.

Existing operational budgets.

 

6.   Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro

Risks and Mitigations Ngā Mōrearea me ngā Whakamātautau

6.1       The decision to delegate to the Chief Executive to approve submissions to external agencies during the period between local electoral terms is low risk.

Legal Considerations Ngā Hīraunga ā-Ture

6.2       Statutory and/or delegated authority to undertake proposals in the report:

6.2.1         The preferred option of delegating to the Chief Executive to approve submissions to external agencies during the period between local electoral terms comes within the broad delegation powers set out in section 32(1) of the Seventh Schedule of the Local Government Act 2002.

6.3       Other Legal Implications:

6.3.1         There is no other legal context, issue, or implication relevant to this decision.

Strategy and Policy Considerations Te Whai Kaupapa here

6.4       The required decision:

6.4.1         Aligns with the Christchurch City Council’s Strategic Framework.

6.4.2         Is assessed as low significance based on the Christchurch City Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. The level of significance was determined by the fact that it relates to administrative matters.

6.4.3         Is consistent with the Council’s Plans and Policies.

6.5       This report supports the Council's Long Term Plan (2024 - 2034):

6.6       Strategic Planning and Policy

6.6.1         Activity: Strategic Policy and Resilience

·     Level of Service: 17.0.1.2 Advice meets emerging needs and statutory requirements, and is aligned with governance expectations in the Strategic Framework - Carry out policy reviews in accordance with Unit work programme and provide advice to meet emerging needs and statutory requirements  

Community Impacts and Views Ngā Mariu ā-Hāpori

6.7       Staff engage with Community Boards on submissions when appropriate. The proposed approach to submissions over the end of the current term will also impact the ability of Community Boards to be involved.

Impact on Mana Whenua Ngā Whai Take Mana Whenua

6.8       The decision does not involve a significant decision in relation to ancestral land, a body of water or other elements of intrinsic value, therefore this decision does not specifically impact Mana Whenua, their culture, and traditions.

6.9       The decision does not involve a matter of interest to Mana Whenua and will not impact on our agreed partnership priorities with Ngā Papatipu Rūnanga.

6.10    The decision is an administrative matter to delegate decision making over the local election period. Staff will continue to work with the Treaty Relationships team in developing submissions to external agencies.

Climate Change Impact Considerations Ngā Whai Whakaaro mā te Āhuarangi

6.15    The proposals in this report are unlikely to contribute significantly to adaptation, the impacts of climate change, or emissions reductions.

6.16    The decision is an administrative matter to delegate decision making over the local election period. Staff will continue to engage with the Climate Resilience and CHAP teams as necessary when developing submissions to external agencies.

7.   Next Steps Ngā Mahinga ā-muri

7.1       Staff will continue to bring Council submissions to Council meetings until the Council’s last substantial meeting.

7.2       After the final substantive Council meeting of the term, submissions will then be delegated to the Chief Executive approval.

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

There are no attachments to this report.

 

In addition to the attached documents, the following background information is available:

Document Name – Location / File Link

Not applicable

 

 

 

Signatories Ngā Kaiwaitohu

Authors

Sharna O'Neil - Policy Analyst

Luke Adams - Principal Advisor Policy

Ron Lemm - Manager Legal Service Delivery

Approved By

Elizabeth Wilson - Team Leader Policy

David Griffiths - Head of Strategic Policy & Resilience

Helen White - General Counsel / Director of Legal & Democratic Services

John Higgins - General Manager Strategy, Planning & Regulatory Services

Mary Richardson - Chief Executive

 

 


14.   Advice on Support for Emergency and Community Housing

Reference Te Tohutoro:

25/1591790

Responsible Officer(s) Te Pou Matua:

Bruce Rendall, Head of Facilities and Property

Accountable ELT Member Pouwhakarae:

Anne Columbus, General Manager Corporate Services/Chief People Officer

 

 

1.   Purpose and Origin of the Report Te Pūtake Pūrongo

1.1       The purpose of this report is to present advice for the Council’s consideration about support for emergency and community housing. The report provides a basis for the Council to determine the direction for a future work programme.  Additional information will be required before decisions can be made on funding and/or consultation through a future Annual Plan or Long-Term Plan process.

1.2       The report originates from a Council resolution on 19 March 2025 (CNCL/2025/00001) requesting “advice on the ways in which the Council could support the provision of emergency and community housing.”  A separate report will be presented about homelessness in response to a noting provision in the 2025/26 Annual Plan requesting “a report on options to address housing and homelessness matters”.

2.   Officer Recommendations Ngā Tūtohu

That the Council:

1.         Receives the information in the Advice on Support for Emergency and Community Housing Report.

2.         Requests advice, including a feasibility study and information about next steps, about redeveloping Council-owned land in Hereford Street into a supportive transitional housing hub in collaboration with relevant stakeholders and partners and in time for potential consultation in the 2026/27 draft Annual Plan.

3.         Noting the Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill has signalled possible changes to the Council’s rating powers, requests Officers undertake further work to prepare advice on the potential for rates funding to support community housing activities in time for consideration early in the next triennium.

3.   Executive Summary

3.1       Information on housing stress and deprivation is outlined in the Background section and accompanying attachment to this report. The Council’s existing policy frameworks and resource allocations currently provide limited capacity to fully support its housing objectives, particularly in the areas of transitional and social housing. This report presents two initiatives for the Council’s consideration and seeks approval for further staff investigation.

3.2       Initiative 1: Developing a Supportive Transitional Housing Hub

3.2.1         The concept of a supportive transitional housing hub is proposed as a potential long-term contribution to Christchurch’s housing system. The initiative would aim to provide transitional housing places integrated with support services, addressing a current undersupplied sector within the local housing system.

3.2.2         Although the initiative may involve significant future costs and is not expected to deliver immediate housing outcomes, a phased development approach could help minimise initial financial exposure. This would include feasibility assessments, engagement with relevant stakeholders, and early-stage planning.

3.2.3         Given the proposal’s potential scale and strategic relevance, it is recommended that the Council formally endorse the commencement of preliminary feasibility work before staff proceed.

3.3       Initiative 2: Leveraging Rates Funding for Housing Initiatives

3.3.1         A rates-based funding mechanism is a possible medium-term financial approach that could support the Council’s existing housing stock and, potentially, community housing initiatives.

3.3.2         This approach may align with our effectiveness and efficiency criteria by utilising established revenue collection mechanisms and offering opportunities to collaborate with community housing providers.  However, progressing this approach would involve a significant policy shift within the Council and may not fully align with broader government directives. Without identified offsetting savings within Council operations, it may also generate community concern.

3.3.3         Given the potential implications, a formal Council resolution indicating support would be appropriate before staff undertake further development of this option.

4.   Background/Context Te Horopaki

 

The Problem Summarised

4.1       Recent data indicates an increase in housing stress and housing deprivation in Christchurch. Housing stress refers to the financial pressure on households spending 30% or more of their income on housing costs. Housing deprivation is when people lack access to adequate shelter, which can range from rough sleeping to living in severely crowded or uninhabitable dwellings. The rate of severe housing deprivation in Christchurch has risen from 54.7 per 10,000 people in 2018 to over 150 per 10,000 in 2023.

4.2       Several factors are contributing to this growing problem:

4.2.1         System-wide Shortages: There are currently limited supplies of emergency, transitional, and long-term public and affordable housing in Christchurch. These constraints can result in extended stays in temporary accommodation due to limited options for progression into more permanent housing, which may also affect the availability of spaces entering the system.

4.2.2         Policy Changes: Recent changes in government policy may be influencing current housing pressures. These include adjustments to eligibility criteria for emergency housing, which have resulted in fewer approvals for assistance. In addition, the slowing or cancellation of public housing developments and changes to tenancy redirection policies have affected the rate at which new housing stock is delivered. These developments may also have implications for the long-term financial sustainability of the Council’s housing portfolio. While recent policy announcements may offer some relief, they are unlikely to fully address the scale of current challenges.

4.2.3         Broader Issues: A range of social and economic factors, including cost of living pressures, mental health conditions, and substance use, can act as barriers to securing stable housing.

4.3       More background is available in Attachment 1.

 

Council's Response and Actions

4.4       Since a 2016 change in delivery model, the Council has been actively working to ensure its community housing portfolio is financially sustainable, warm, dry, and well-maintained.  A further objective is for the Council, working with OCHT and other community housing providers, to increase the amount of social housing available by developing new complexes on vacant sites and redeveloping existing sites to accommodate more units.

4.5       While initially successful, achieving these objectives has become more difficult due to increasing costs and changes to the Government's Public Housing Plan and other housing policies.

4.6       Existing revenue from rents and subsidies is insufficient to cover essential operational and maintenance costs, let alone fund new construction.  Accessing funding for new development or redevelopment is also difficult. 

4.7       Throughout the period, the Council has implemented strategies to reduce costs and increase revenue to try to generate sufficient funds to achieve its aims (See Attachment 1).  Under current policy settings, these actions have proved ineffective in generating significant additional funding for either the long-term financial sustainability of the portfolio or growth.

4.8       If it wishes to contribute further to addressing housing stress and housing deprivation, the Council may need to look to additional solutions.  The rest of this report presents a proposal, which could help contribute to freeing up temporary housing, and an option for a policy change, that could create funding for community housing.

 

Analysis Criteria

4.9       While the background above is condensed, the approaches mentioned have been assessed against criteria to ensure alignment with the Council's strategic objectives and community needs.  These criteria are:

4.9.1         Effectiveness: Staff assess how the option could demonstrably contribute to the Council's housing vision (all residents have access to secure, safe, affordable, warm, and dry housing), thereby improving individual outcomes and strengthening communities.

4.9.2         Efficiency: Staff determine if the intervention can achieve its intended outcomes at a reasonable cost and with long-term financial sustainability.

4.9.3         Legislative Consistency: Staff verify that the option is compliant with the Council's legal responsibilities. 

4.9.4         Policy Alignment: Staff assess if the options are consistent with existing Council policies, including the Housing Policy 2016, Community Housing Strategy, and Strengthening Communities Strategy, while pragmatically addressing any limitations posed by current funding principles.

4.9.5         Long-Term Sustainability and Resilience: Staff assess the intervention's long-term viability and its capacity to contribute to an enduring and adaptable housing system, avoiding future dependencies.

4.9.6         Collaboration and Partnerships: Staff examine the extent to which the intervention could foster collaboration with central government agencies, Iwi, and Community Housing Providers to leverage diverse resources and expertise.

5.   An opportunity to address Transitional Housing Needs

 

The Opportunity

5.1       The background information highlights challenges associated with transitional housing in Christchurch. 

5.2       There may be an opportunity to explore a long-term response. The Council owns a converted motel on Hereford Street, currently leased to the YWCA and used for transitional housing for women and children. The facility was not originally designed for this purpose and is nearing the end of its operational life.

5.3       This Hereford Street property is located near the Christchurch City Mission. 

5.4       The Council could consider facilitating the exploration of the feasibility of redeveloping this site into a supportive transitional housing hub.

5.5       This initiative proposes to investigate the redevelopment of this site into a long-term transitional housing hub that integrates essential support services. This concept draws from successful models implemented elsewhere, such as HomeGround in Auckland and Whakamaru in Wellington. To be successful the Council would need to collaborate with key partners, including the City Mission and YWCA, to define the scope and operational model, and explore funding mechanisms.

5.6       An initial feasibility study would help assess stakeholder interest and identify potential funding partners. If the study indicates support, the Council could consider preparing a preliminary business case for inclusion in the 2026/27 Annual Plan. It is noted that seed funding would be required to develop a full business case, and no current budget is allocated for this purpose.

5.7       Should the initiative progress to a full business case, it could be prepared in time for consideration as part of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan.

 

Considerations and Limitations

5.8       This phased approach to exploring a supportive transitional housing hub offers several advantages:

5.8.1         Potential Long-Term Solution: Exploring a supportive transitional housing hub may offer a strategic opportunity to increase the availability of transitional housing and improve access to integrated support services for individuals experiencing housing instability.

5.8.2         Complementary Service Delivery: A dedicated facility with integrated support services could complement existing community services and infrastructure.

5.8.3         No Immediate Expenditure: The initial phase focuses on a feasibility study, allowing for further assessment before any significant capital investment is considered.

5.9       The proposed initiative also carries certain disadvantages:

5.9.1         No Immediate Impact: As the initial phase centres on feasibility, there may be limited immediate action to address current housing needs. This could lead to perceptions of delay or insufficient responsiveness among stakeholders.

5.9.2         Potential Future High-Cost : While early-stage costs are minimal, full redevelopment and ongoing operations may require substantial financial investment.

5.9.3         Not Core Council Business: Some stakeholders may view the development of a transitional housing hub as outside the Council’s core responsibilities, which could prompt discussion around prioritisation and resource allocation.

5.10    Several critical issues require careful consideration throughout the feasibility process:

5.10.1       Funding Availability: Identifying and securing substantial funding, both for capital development and ongoing operational sustainability, will be a significant challenge. The Council will need to ascertain the willingness of external funders to invest in such a project.

5.10.2       Operating Sustainability: Ensuring the long-term operational sustainability of a supportive housing hub, which includes funding for comprehensive support services, requires a detailed and viable financial model. Potenital operators already face financial pressures, particularly around operating expenditure.

5.10.3       Shared City Vision: The success of a project of this scale and nature hinges on a shared city vision and broad community support. The feasibility study should assess whether such a unified vision exists and can be developed to support the project.

5.11    Analysis comments based on the criteria in 0 are:

5.11.1       Effectiveness: This option may contribute to the Council's housing vision in the long term by increasing transitional housing beds and integrating crucial support services. However, it does not offer an immediate impact.

5.11.2       Efficiency: The initial phase involves no immediate capital expenditure, focusing solely on a feasibility study. If successful, the full project will require substantial investment, necessitating a robust financial model for long-term operational sustainability. Its ultimate efficiency hinges on securing significant external funding and operating partners.

5.11.3       Legislative Consistency: Exploring redevelopment for a supportive housing hub aligns with the Council's role in promoting community wellbeing under the Local Government Act 2002. It supports local decision-making to address a significant community need.

5.11.4       Policy Alignment: This option is consistent with the Council's housing policies by aiming to provide secure and safe housing options. It represents a strategic investment which may address a gap in the housing continuum, which is consistent with the intent of the Housing Policy and Community Housing Strategy.

5.11.5       Long-Term Sustainability and Resilience: This option may offer potential for long-term sustainability and resilience by creating a purpose-built, integrated housing solution. Its success depends on securing long-term operational funding and establishing effective partnerships for ongoing support services, which are critical for its enduring impact.

5.11.6       Collaboration and Partnerships: This option prioritises collaboration from its inception, proposing partnerships with key agencies like the City Mission and YWCA. This collaborative approach is essential for defining the scope, operational model, and securing funding partners, leveraging diverse expertise.

 

6.   Rates Funding

An Option

6.1       The background information indicates that current funding levels may limit the Council’s ability to fully achieve its community housing objectives. One option for addressing this constraint could involve the use of rates funding, although this would represent a notable policy shift.

6.2       This option would involve allocating rates funding to support community housing. Funding could be sourced through an increase in rates, either via the general rate or a targeted levy or through the reprioritisation of existing resources.

6.2.1         Rates funding could be directed toward improving existing Council-owned housing stock, particularly properties that are in poor condition or no longer fit for purpose (e.g., bed-sits), with the aim of increasing the number of usable units. It could also be used to service loans for the development of new, unsubsidised rental housing.

6.2.2         Another potential use of rates funding could be the establishment of a grants programme for community housing providers. This programme could support both operational costs (such as support services and private market rental subsidies) and capital investment. Funding priorities could be developed in collaboration with relevant agencies.

6.3       The current Revenue and Financing Policy does not provide for the use of rates funding to support Community Housing. As such, gauging the Council’s willingness to consider rates funding as an option is a necessary preliminary step. If there is support, staff could prepare further information and develop a more detailed concept for consideration by Council and  potential inclusion in a future Annual or Long-Term Plan consultation process.

6.4       The policy environment surrounding local government housing provision continues to evolve. Anticipated changes, such as amendments to the purpose of local government and the potential introduction of rates capping, may influence the viability of rates funding for social housing. While these changes are not yet finalised and their impacts remain uncertain, they underscore the importance of a phased and considered approach to exploring this option.

Considerations and Preliminary Analysis

6.5       Rates funding presents several advantages:

6.5.1         Strategic Alignment: The proposal aligns with existing strategic documents, such as the Greater Christchurch Partnership's Joint Housing Action Plan, which includes a Phase 2 action to explore a Targeted Rate at circa $20/ household per annum.   The Council's Community Housing Strategy 2021 - 2031 includes an action to "Identify and evaluate funding and financing options to support the increased supply of community housing to meet current and expected demand".  In its Housing Policy 2016, the Council commits to "Develop consenting, rating and development contributions assistance policies to support social and affordable housing." 

6.5.2         Efficiency: Utilising established Council processes for rates collection and potential grant distribution may support efficient implementation without requiring new administrative systems.

6.5.3         Community Focus: Directing funding toward community housing may help address identified needs. Involving established community agencies in the design and delivery of any programme could support targeted and practical investment.

6.5.4         Effectiveness: Reinvesting rates funding into Council-owned housing stock may result in short- to medium-term improvements by increasing the number of lettable units. A grants programme could also provide targeted support to community housing providers based on identified priorities.

6.6       Potential disadvantages associated with this initiative include:

6.6.1         Policy Inconsistency: Implementing a new rates funding stream or significant reprioritisation will present inconsistencies with the Council's current Revenue and Financing Policy, which requires housing activities to be funded through user charges (i.e. rents). A policy departure or amendment, with clear justifications for deviation, would be necessary.

6.6.2         Public Opposition: Any proposal involving rates increase is likely to encounter public opposition. Similarly, significant reprioritisation of funds will inevitably create concern among services or projects that experience reduced funding.

6.6.3         Non-Core Spend Perception: Some stakeholders may perceive direct rates funding for housing services as a departure from the Council's core responsibilities, arguing that housing provision is not a primary function typically funded by general rates.

6.7       Several key issues require careful consideration to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative:

6.7.1         Achievability of Funding Reprioritisation: A critical question would be whether the Council could realistically identify and reprioritise the necessary funding from existing budgets without unduly impacting other essential or important discretionary services. This would require a thorough and transparent review of current expenditures.

6.7.2         Stakeholder Support: While there is some evidence of support for addressing housing affordability, securing broad public and political support for rates increases may be challenging. Reprioritisation, while avoiding a direct rate increase, would necessitate managing potential opposition from affected parties.

6.7.3         Changing Legislation:  The Government has introduced the Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill.  Under the Bill, a local authority's ability to deliver or fund community housing is likely to be constrained compared to previous legislative frameworks.  The Bill removes all references to the four aspects of community well-being (social, economic, environmental, and cultural) from the Local Government Act 2002. This change refocuses councils on the cost-effective provision of core infrastructure and public services.  It is not clear if housing is considered local infrastructure or public service, however, it is not included in the list of core services.

6.8       This option has been assessed using the evaluation criteria in 0:

6.8.1         Effectiveness: This option may contribute to the Council's housing vision. It may address housing stress through creating funds to increase available housing units and providing financial support to frontline agencies.

6.8.2         Efficiency: This option may demonstrate efficiency by leveraging existing Council processes for rates collection and grant distribution. Reinvesting rates into Council housing stock may offer a clear mechanism for capital deployment, improving existing assets. Long-term financial sustainability may depend on public acceptance of rates funding for the housing activity.

6.8.3         Legislative Consistency: While consistent with promoting community outcomes under the Local Government Act 2002, a new rates funding stream or significant reprioritisation will require amendment of the Council's current Revenue and Financing Policy, which primarily relies on user charges for housing.

6.8.4         Policy Alignment: This option aligns with the Housing Policy 2016 and Community Housing Strategy, by assisting housing and support services.

6.8.5         Long-Term Sustainability and Resilience: This option may offer long-term sustainability by establishing a funding stream for housing initiatives. It may enhance the resilience of the housing system by enabling direct Council investment and supporting community agencies by reducing reliance on central government subsidies and rents.

6.8.6         Collaboration and Partnerships: This option may foster collaboration by involving established community agencies in the design and grant distribution. It may offer direct financial support, strengthening partnerships with providers of community housing services.

 

 

 

Attachments Ngā Tāpirihanga

No.

Title

Reference

Page

a

Attachment 1 - Background Information

25/1823961

146

 

 

In addition to the attached documents, the following background information is available:

Document Name – Location / File Link

Not applicable

 

 

 

 

Signatories Ngā Kaiwaitohu

Author

Bruce Rendall - Head of Facilities & Property

Approved By

Mary Richardson - Chief Executive

 

 








  

 

 

 


15.   Resolution to Exclude the Public

Section 48, Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987.

 

Note: The grounds for exclusion are summarised in the following table. The full wording from the Act can be found in section 6 or section 7, depending on the context.

 

I move that the public be excluded from the following parts of the proceedings of this meeting, namely the items listed overleaf.

 

Reason for passing this resolution: a good reason to withhold exists under section 7.

Specific grounds under section 48(1) for the passing of this resolution: Section 48(1)(a)

 

Note

 

Section 48(4) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 provides as follows:

 

“(4)     Every resolution to exclude the public shall be put at a time when the meeting is open to the public, and the text of that resolution (or copies thereof):

 

             (a)       Shall be available to any member of the public who is present; and

             (b)       Shall form part of the minutes of the local authority.”

 

This resolution is made in reliance on Section 48(1)(a) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 and the particular interest or interests protected by Section 6 or Section 7 of that Act which would be prejudiced by the holding of the whole or relevant part of the proceedings of the meeting in public are as follows:


ITEM NO.

GENERAL SUBJECT OF EACH MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED

SECTION

SUBCLAUSE AND REASON UNDER THE ACT

PUBLIC INTEREST CONSIDERATION

Potential Release Review Date and Conditions

16.

Public Excluded Council Minutes - 3 September 2025

 

 

Refer to the previous public excluded reason in the agendas for these meetings.

 

17.

Riskpool Governance

s7(2)(b)(ii)

Prejudice Commercial Position

The information in this report must remain confidential to protect Riskpool's position when dealing with reinsurers. Should this information be released it may result in additional cost to ratepayers, which outweighs the public interest in this matter.

30 January 2027

This report may be released once Riskpool completes the closure of the fund years in question.

 


Karakia Whakamutunga

Kia whakairia te tapu

Kia wātea ai te ara

Kia turuki whakataha ai

Kia turuki whakataha ai

Haumi e. Hui e. Tāiki e


 



[1] The delegations currently refer to Rates Manager, this is an administrative error as it was the Rates Revenue Manager as reflected by the acronym.