The room was full of the many people who have been worked tremendously hard to make Auckland Fair Trade. I acknowledge them all and especially those from the Make Auckland Fair Trade campaign team who were not able to be there for the announcement. In particular singer Kirsten Morrell who had flown out to the UK the night before.

My introduction to the Make Auckland Fair trade Campaign was through meeting Kirsten when I was on the election trail with her mother, Tricia Reade who is now my City Vision colleague on the Waitemata Local Board. Kirsten has been a passionate supporter of Fair Trade for many years and when we met in 2010 had been actively collecting signatures for the Make Auckland Fair Trade petition. Kirsten’s persuasive arguments for Fair Trade were instrumental in the initiative becoming the policy of the Waitemata Local Board.  With the support of my colleagues on the Board we were able to kick off the process through Council to meet one of the key requirements of being certified a Fair Trade City. It took exactly a year from our own resolution to be the first Fair Trade Local Board in May 2011 for the decision to go to through  the Council’s Economic Forum, the Tenders and Procurement sub-committee and finally to the Regional and Operations Development Committee in March when the Mayor and Council voted unanimously in support.

The smooth process through Council was made possible by the rock solid report prepared by Geoff Cooper and Barrett Owen. The report outlines all the reasons for Council to support Fair Trade . In 2007 the same initiative from Leila Boyle and Richard Northey on the Auckland City Council was defeated after a media beat up about the cost of toilet paper. Luckily there is far greater awareness about the benefits of Fair Trade now and the Council is in fact likey to save money from switching to Fairtrade tea and coffee.

For me becoming Fairtrade is all part of a “brand Auckland” that I would like to be proud of it. If we are going to be the most liveable city in the world then we need to be innovative, creative and fair. We can use our extensive buying power to be conscious consumers making a direct impact in the developing world with every purchase.  I also think Auckland as a Fair Trade City will be good for business and expanding our trading opportunities with the South Pacific.

Congratulations Auckland!

Portfolio reports

Transport

RLTP On behalf of the Board I presented, with member Dempsey, to the Auckland Transport hearings on the draft Regional Land Transport Programme (RLTP).  We raised a number of issues with the draft document in particular the failure to align high-level plans and strategies that drive investment with local board plans and priorities. We confirmed our support for projects that align with local board priorities such as the City Rail Link, and integrated ticketing as well as those projects in our local board plan and agreement (such as Franklin Road upgrade, school travel planning and cycleway development). Unfortunately there is a discrepancy between the level of attention to active transport in the draft RLTP and the actual level of funding. We asked for the following projects to be specifically included in the RLTP:

• Auckland Harbour Bridge pathway
• Green links
• Slower speed zones
• City Centre Master Plan and Waterfront plan transport projects

We also asked for the safety and minor improvements budget to be increased as local boards are most likely to look to this fund to achieve transport priorities.

Getting Auckland Moving – Alternative Funding for Transport Discussion Document- I worked on the Board’s feedback on the Discussion Document which is attached to the agenda. The feedback notes that the extent of the funding gap has been created due to the government’s failure to contribute Auckland’s share of the GPS for Land Transport Funding to transport projects that will significantly advantage Auckland such as the CRL.

Auckland Transport – draft Statement of Intent – The Board provided comments on the draft Statement of Intents for all of the Council Controlled Organisations (attached to the Agenda). I particularly focused on the Auckland Transport SOI which in its current form provides insufficient direction to AT and must be strengthened in order to give effect to the vision and priorities of the Auckland Plan and the transport priorities of the region’s 21 local boards.

Monthly transport update

The monthly Transport catch up was held with the Transport portfolio (attended by myself and Member Moyle) and relevant officers from Auckland Transport on 26 April. The issues discussed are reported back monthly by AT on our public agenda.  Specific issues include:

• Walking and Cycling improvements in the Domain – The transport portfolio is supportive of the proposals so far including speed calming measures every 100 metres, 6 new raised pedestrian crossing points, an uphill cycle lane on Lower Domain Drive and a cycle lane from Park Road through to below the museum
• St Mary’s Bay parking trial – signage is due to be installed on 23 July 2012
• Eden Quarter Parking Review  – in response to a request from businesses and residents to address commuter parking issues and to provide more business parking

Parnell roundabout -Parnell Inc has raised objections to the proposed Parnell roundabout at the intersection of Parnell Road and Parnell Rise as they consider the roundabout will increase congestion on Parnell Road. A meeting was held with AT and members of Parnell Inc on 18 April (member Dempsey attended for the Board) Next steps: AT is in the process of responding to a LGOIMA request from Parnell Inc relating to the proposal.

Wellington Street off- ramp – The newly formed Herne Bay Residents Association has raised concerns about the increase of traffic on Curran Street due to the closure of the Wellington Street on ramp. I attended a meeting for residents at NZTA with representatives of Auckland Transport. NZTA are studying the impact of the closure on the surrounding area and have undertaken to consult with stakeholders on any proposal going forward. Next steps: Awaiting a response from NZTA to the results of their study. The need for the speed limit enforcement on Curran Street to be raised directly with the Police by AT.

K’rd over bridge –  I met with Barbara Holloway on 20 April to discuss the incorrect installation of the metal panels on the K’rd over bridge which was completed in August 2011. The original design was intended to provide pedestrians with a view to the North Shore from the bridge. Unfortunately Opus has installed the panels so that the view is obscured for most of the length of the bridge and from the seating area that was specifically installed for the view. Next Steps: Stephen Rainbow has been requested to confirm how AT intends to resolve this issue.

Community

LTP Hearings – The draft Long Term Plan 2012-2022 hearings were heard by the Board on 19 April with a number of thoughtful presentations. It is of concern that submitters were given a very short notice period about the hearings date which reduced the number of submitters who were able to attend. Deliberations on the submissions were held at our Local Board Workshop on 24 April.

Campbell Free Kindergarten – Planning has been underway during April for the open day at the newly restored Campbell Free Kindergarten in Victoria Park to be held on Saturday 5 May. Feedback is being sought from the community about possible uses for this historic building.

Community Assistance Policies  -During April Auckland Council consulted on three new region-wide policies relating to how Auckland Council provides community assistance; the draft Community Occupancy Policy, draft Facility Partnership Policy and draft Community Funding Policy (consultation is open until 18 May on this policy). A notice went out to the Board’s community database from me and member Reade as the Community Portfolio.

Grey Lynn Business Association

I attended one of the GLBA’s fortnightly meetings in April.

Community Grants

The Committee met to consider applications for the third and final round of the community grants funding 2011/12. A total of $25,345 was recommended in grants to the Waitemata Local Board ordinary meeting on 10 April 2012.  The minutes of the meeting are attached to the agenda.

Isthmus Local Board Joint Funding Committee

Community Group Assistance Fund (Round 2) – The total funding pool available for 2011/2012 was $450,000. Of this, $435,000 was available for the isthmus area to be distributed over two funding rounds in the 2011/2012 financial year. The first round of CGAF opened on 25 June 2011, closed on 29 July 2011, and funded 22 groups totalling $205,741. The second round of CGAF opened on 2 December 2011 and closed on 20 January 2012. Council received 106 applications from 97 groups requesting a total of $1,364,696.83. Officers assessed all applications and presented their recommendations to the Committee at a workshop meeting held on 16 March 2012. The joint funding committee approved the allocation of the second and final round of funding of $229,259 at its meeting on 26 April. Auckland City Cultural Heritage Fund Allocation – The Isthmus Local Board Joint Funding Committee meeting considered 10 applications for funding from $21,250 available for allocation for the remainder of the 2011/2012 financial year from Cultural Heritage Fund.   Of the 7 applications recommended by officers for approval 4 were within the Waitemata Local Board area.

Other board activities

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

• Meeting to discuss the draft Statement of Intent board feedback on 3 April ·
• Fairtrade meeting on 3 April to discuss a Council event to be attended by the Mayor to announce the Council’s Fairtrade status ·
• Governing Body Transport Committee on 3 April ·
• Leys Institute Gym meeting with parents and Lyn Burrows ·
• Meeting with Ants Hawke from Hapai Te Hauora Tapui Ltd ·
•  Local Board business meeting in Grey Lynn on 10 April ·
• Parnell Roundabout meeting with transport officers on 16 April ·
• Wellington Street off- ramp meeting with Herne Bay Residents Association representatives, NZTA and Auckland Transport officers (hosted by NZTA) on 16 April ·
• Meeting with representatives from Auckland Council Investments Limited and Ports of Auckland to discuss future POAL plans on 17 April ·
• Campbell’s Free Kindergarten – Community Consultation process meeting on 23 April ·
• Waitemata Local Board workshops on 3, 17 and 24 April ·
•  Communications update with Kim Reed and the Chair on 24 April ·
• RLTP hearings in Henderson on 24 April ·
• ATEED events briefing on 24 April ·
• Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with AT on 26 April ·
• Isthmus Joint Funding Committee Meeting on 26 April ·
• Alternative Funding meeting on 26 April to finalise feedback on the Discussion Document ·
• City Centre Master plan meeting on 27 April

Events and functions I attended the following events and functions during April ·

• High Tea at the Auckland Museum hosted by the Museum Circle on Sunday 1 April (at the invitation of the Museum Circle) ·
• Simon Shepheard In Retrospect opening Bath Street Gallery on Tuesday 3 April ·
• Annette Isbey Past & Present at Warwick Henderson Gallery ·
•  Opening of T.Whites every day bike shop on Symonds Street ·
• Nicole Foss presentation hosted by Grey Lynn 2030 at the Grey Lynn RSC on 16 April ·
•  Wind in the Willows performance (at the invitation of Tim Bray) ·
• Blessing of the Tepid Baths on Monday 23 April ·
• Represented the Board with Member Moyle to present a wreath on behalf of the Board at the Anzac Day 2012 Civic Service ·
• Attended the Grey Lynn RSC parade and ANZAC day ceremony ·
• Meeting of the Western Bays Community Group on 30 April

I attended the Australasian Permaculture Convergence in Turangi from 11-15 April. A report on this conference will be attached to my June Board report.

I enjoyed Easter on Waiheke where I was impressed with the new bike racks on buses and commend Fullers and the Waiheke Local Board for supporting this initiative.

I report monthly at our local board meetings on my activities. So far my reports have been very dry, factual descriptions of what I have been doing over the last month but they do provide a good overview of just how much happens for the local board each month. The Chair’s and other member reports are also online on the monthly agenda.

Monthly report covering activities from 1 March – 31 March 2012

Portfolio reports

Transport

RLTP-  I worked with officers and member Dempsey to finalise the Board’s feedback on the draft Regional Land Transport Programme (RLTP).  We raised a number of issues with the draft document in particular the failure to align high-level plans and strategies that drive investment with local board plans and priorities. We also noted the absence of City Centre Master plan and Waterfront plan transport projects which we believe should be included as the RLTP is required to cover all transport activities in the Auckland region. A copy of the submission is attached to the agenda.

Proposed Traffic and Speed Limit Bylaws –  Feedback was also provided in March on the proposed Traffic and Speed Limit Bylaws. Our submission included a request that the clause allowing AT to make some roads and shared spaces one-way for motor vehicles, also provides for two-ways for cyclists and other active transport modes (e.g. contra-flows).

Report back from 2Walk and Cycle conference 22-24 February, Hastings – Member Dempsey has prepared a comprehensive report back on the 2Walk and Cycle Conference I also attended in Hastings (22-24 February). As he concludes in the report there are several key messages:

• Cycling and walking offers health benefits far in excess of costs (this requires a “whole of government” approach to invest in future proofing cities to reduce diseases of modern living)
• It is important to properly fund infrastructure to secure these substantial benefits (we saw the direct benefits in Hawkes Bay where the installation of cycle lanes and pathways is resulting in huge increases in everyday cycling for transport and cycle tourism).
• Political leadership is needed in supporting the critical development of cycling/walking infrastructure.

School bike tracks – I had the opportunity to attend the opening of Wellsford Primary School’s Te Huanui Cycle Track on 9 March at the invitation of Harbour Sport. This is only the second track in Auckland based on the Bike-On initiative developed in Hastings by Paul McArdle to get kids back on bikes and exercising in a safe environment. As Auckland Transport reported at the Regional Walking and Cycling Forum on 13 March they are supporting the development of more bike tracks and will shortly be releasing a “How to” manual for schools. In the Waitemata Local Board area I have been involved with a group assisting Grey Lynn School to install a bike track around the school grounds. However this project has now been put on hold while new classrooms and a hall development are underway.

Monthly transport updates –  Transport catch ups were held with the Transport portfolio and relevant officers from Auckland Transport on 1st March (postponed from February) and 23 March. The issues discussed are reported back monthly by AT on our public agenda.

Parking at the zoo –  On 19 March I met with the CEO of Auckland Zoo and Natalie Hansby, Manager, Visitor Experience and Business Development to discuss the traffic calming proposed by AT on Motions Road and the installation of a signalised intersection at Great North Road/Motions Road Next steps: A number of actions arose from the meeting including improvements to the bus stops servicing the Zoo and a longer term plan to provide for parking for the wider precinct.

Parnell roundabout  – AT have proposed a roundabout at the intersection of Parnell Rise and Parnell Road in order cope with the increase in the number of cars expected to be generated from the new Geyser development. On 26 March I met with representatives from Parnell Inc, AT and the Parnell Community Committee to discuss concerns raised by local businesses that the roundabout will increase congestion on Parnell Road. Next steps: AT is in the process of responding to a number of issues before taking this project further.

Parnell Station and the old Parnell tunnel – On 8 March Nick Seymour of Auckland Transport took members of the Board on a walk around the Mainland Stream site and to the entrance of the old tunnel. We had an opportunity to see the retaining work alongside the Waipapa stream as well as look around the Domain underpass and plans for the Domain ramps/stairs.

Community

LTP consultation –  Two community meetings were held in March to discuss the draft Long Term plan 2012-2022 and our draft Local Board Agreement which forms part of the draft LTP. The Mayor and Cr Lee attended the meeting on 1 March at the Grey Lynn RSC. I also visited the LTP road show at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market on 18 March. The feedback I have received from the community is that the online submission form was incredibly difficult to understand and was a deterrent to providing feedback on a huge number of important issues.

I had the opportunity to discuss the Board’s transport priorities that form part of the LTP in an interview on Bfm’s Green desk on 13 March.

Fairtrade – During March the Regional Development and Operations Committee and the Tenders and Procurement Subcommittee supported the Economic Forum’s recommendation to make Auckland Fairtrade. This is the final stage of the political process that was kicked off in May last year with the Waitemata Local Board’s resolution recommending to the Governing Body of Auckland Council that Auckland becomes a Fair Trade City.  Next steps: work is now underway within Auckland Council to obtain Fair trade status in time for Fair trade fortnight in May.

Hearings on the Auckland Council’s draft Waste Minimisation and Management Plan –  I attended the hearings with member Dempsey on 26 March as part of Local Board feedback on the draft plan. I also attended the public hearings to support the Grey Lynn 2030 waste away submission. The councillors on the hearings panel are to be congratulated for the enthusiasm and genuine interest with which they are receiving submissions which has made submitters feel part of a robust and transparent process.

Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio – A range of meetings were attended during March relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below

Grey Lynn Business Association

Attended one of the GLBA’s fortnightly meetings in March. I am following up on a number of issues for GLBA members including the beautification of the Surrey Cres shops, bike parking outside the new Kokako café and progress on the Williamson Ave Fire station development.

Newmarket Business Association – Attended the presentation to the Board on the NBA’s strategic plan and current initiatives. I also attended the NBA’s fashion in the street event on 24 March.

Other board activities

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

• Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with AT on 1st and 23rd March
• Meeting to discuss allocation of Waitemata LB’s  LIPS and Discretionary CAPEX on 1 March
• Meeting with Kiwirail to discuss use of old Parnell Rail tunnel as a connection to Newmarket (part of the Board’s “green link” aspirations)
• A number of RLTP discussion meetings to prepare our submission on the draft RLTP
• Local Board engagement as part of the LTP consultation at the Grey Lynn RSC attended by the Mayor and Cr Lee on 1 March and on 6 March at the Board offices, Graham Street
• Transport Committee meeting on 6 March including presentations by Cycle Action Auckland and the Greenways Project
• Tour of Highwic House and a presentation over morning tea hosted by Cheryl Laurie, Manager Highwic
• Waitemata Local Board workshops on 6 March , 20 and 27  March
• Regional Walking and cycling forum on 13 March
•  CBD advisory board meeting (in the absence of the Chair)
• Local Board business meeting in Grey Lynn on 13 March
• Isthmus Joint Funding Committee Workshop
• Chinese Garden site in Western Springs Park – briefing by Shyrel Burt on 19 March
• Parnell Trust – Community Facilities City Centre area meeting with Phillippa Pitcher and Anne Barrowclough
• Tepid Baths Presentation to Waitemata Local Board
• Delegations to Chief Executive – workshop on 20 March with the Auckland Council executive team and local board members from Waitemata, Albert- Eden and Waiheke Local Boards
• Working lunch with directors and senior team of Waterfront Auckland on 22 March
• LanzaTech & opportunities to support growth in Auckland meeting hosted by ATEED
• Meeting with Geoff Chamberlain and Kate Roberts to discuss medium-long term library development in the Wynard Quarter, the Parnell Library lease and also the Grey Lynn and Leys Institute libraries on 22 March. ·
• EDS strategy workshop for local board members to discuss issues with Councillors and Harvey Brookes
• Local Boards Treaty Settlements briefing on 26 March
• Auckland Conversation on 28 March – 10 presentations from 10 cities moderated by Greg Clark (part of the Sea Edge symposium for waterfront development leaders)
• Governing Body meeting on 29 March for signing off the Auckland Plan – travelled to the Manukau Chamber with Member Dempsey by bike and train in recognition of the Plan’s aim to create the world’s most liveable city
  Communications update with Kim Reed and the Chair
• Meeting with Tricia Reade to meet the new community lease advisor Local Boards Unitary Plan Symposium on 30 March
• Meeting with Emily Harris from Urban Pantry to discuss a community garden on the Cross Street car park off K’rd

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during March:

•  Launch of Seaweek at Auckland Zoo
• Try my Bike at the Lake House in Takapuna (an Auckland Transport event in association with Frocks on Bike)
• International Women’s Day Celebration at Khartoum Place on 8 March
• Pacifika festival at Western Springs
• Walk to work day breakfast at Pigeon Park
• Cycle Action’s associates breakfast
• Chairman’s inaugural lunch at the Voyager Museum V
• olvo Ocean Race Auckland Leg Four Prize giving Dinner
• Movies in the Park in Grey Lynn
• Ponsonby Market Day
• AT’s family fun bike day
• NBA’s fashion in the street
• Cycle Style (an Auckland Transport funded event in association with Frocks on Bike)
• Launch of the Social Entrepreneurs School. Opening on The Kitchen – a new shared work space for social entrepreneurs
• Cycle Action public meeting
• Richmond Road School gala on Saturday 31 March

Report to the March 2012 meeting: Covering activities from 1 February – 29 February 2012

Portfolios

Transport (West including Regional portfolio) with Greg Moyle
Community (including Regional portfolio) with Tricia Reade
Chair, Grants Committee
Positions: Grey Lynn Business Association, Newmarket Business Association (alternate)

Portfolio reports

Transport
At the beginning of February I worked to finalise the list of initiatives and projects detailed in our draft Local Board Agreement (included in the draft Long-Term Plan 2012-2022) that we will be advocating to Auckland Transport to deliver during 12/13 (the draft was agreed to at our business meeting on 14 February). The Transport Portfolio took the view that a prescriptive transport list is required in the terms of the agreement to best ensure that Auckland Transport will deliver on the community outcomes outlined in our Local board Plan.

I have included the full list taken from the draft agreement in my report below for ease of reference as it is very difficult to locate this part of the document in the draft LTP on the Auckland Council website. (From page Vol 4, chapter 26 page 365)
Advocacy

Some of the initiatives and priorities contained within Waitemata’s Local Board Plan fall outside the decision-making responsibilities or budgets of local boards. These will require decisions from the governing body, council-controlled organisations (CCOs) or other agencies. The Waitemata Local Board will advocate for the following initiatives:

Auckland Transport

1. Improve cycle infrastructure through an increase in connected, dedicated cycleways
a. Auckland Transport to deliver an initial dedicated cycleway project in the area of Surrey Crescent including from Garnet Road to Great North Road / Williamson Avenue and from the Richmond Road shops to Surrey Crescent.

The form could be any of the following:
· cycle lanes protected behind parked cars cycle lanes protected behind low, intermittent kerbing / traffic islands
· Copenhagen lanes / raised lanes
· high-quality shared path / two-way cycleway with physical separation (southern side – less
· side-roads).

b. Auckland Transport to continue the delivery of the below projects, already under consideration:

i. Carlton Gore Road (painted bike lanes currently planned)
ii. Beach Road, linking the Northern Western Cycleway, through the Central Motorway Junction,
with Tamaki Drive and Parnell Station
iii. Parnell to the City Centre walk/cycleway, through the new underpass south of the Parnell
Train Station
iv. Nelson & Hobson Street (with separated two-way cycleways, as described in the City Centre
Masterplan)
v. Wellesley St connection to Auckland Domain under Symonds St overbridge.

2. Slow traffic on residential streets and at local shopping centres:
a. Auckland Transport and the Board to work together on identifying traffic calming measures for the shopping areas in Parnell, Ponsonby, Karangahape Road and Richmond Road to support 40 km/h zones. This would include for example, raised crossings, raised intersections and kerb build-outs
to narrow the road.

b. Auckland Transport to trial a 40km/h (or even 30km/h) speed zone for a residential area for example the area west of Ponsonby Road (between Richmond Road and Jervois Road where the speed environment is already below 40km/h).

c. Auckland Transport to implement the city centre 30km/h speed zone (as described in the City Centre Master Plan).

3. Install advance cycle stop boxes with feeder lanes Auckland Transport to install advance cycle stop boxes with feeder lanes in the following locations:
i. Williamson Avenue northeast coming onto Ponsonby Road
ii. College Hill Road westbound coming onto Ponsonby Road
iii. Tamaki Drive, westbound at The Strand
iv. St Stephen’s Avenue westbound coming onto Parnell Road
v. Carlton Gore Road westbound onto Park Road
vi. Karangahape Road eastbound at Symonds Street, onto the Grafton Bridge
vii. Great North Road eastbound coming on to Karangahape Road.

4. Review and improve traffic management in Auckland Domain Auckland Transport to improve walking and cycling access to and around the Domain, while discouraging commuter parking use of the Domain through:
i. Implementation of a parking scheme for the Domain that works to discourage commuter parking
(e.g. through pricing)
ii. Improving walking and cycling options through the Parnell-City Centre walk/cycleway and Carlton Gore Road (cycle lanes and the pedestrian crossing over Carlton Gore Road at George Street concept).

5. Conduct an audit of intersections that can be improved for pedestrians Auckland Transport to conduct an audit of intersections in substantial foot traffic areas and develop solutions to improve safety and mobility for pedestrians.
This includes: all intersections with left–turn slip lanes and no pedestrian facility e.g. Mayoral Drive/Albert Street, Mayoral Drive/Vincent Street; Beach Road to Tangihua Road, and from Tangihua Road to Beach Road
other slip lanes with no pedestrian facility e.g. Albert with Wyndham, Victoria and Wellesley streets intersections with long pedestrian crossing delays, eg Curran Street and Jervois Road, St Marys Bay Road, College Hill in Ponsonby.

In addition to the examples above, this list includes for priority investigation the following dangerous intersections:
i. Victoria Street East / Bowen Avenue (lack of crossing options, etc)
ii. Carlton Gore Road / George Street (pedestrian crossing over Carlton Gore, slowing traffic into and out of George Street – under investigation)
iii. Union Street / Hobson Street (improving traffic phasing for pedestrians crossing over Hobson Street)
iv. Left-turn slip from Hobson Street onto Pitt Street
v. Left-turn slip from Nelson Street onto Victoria Street West
vi. Beach Road / Britomart Place / Fort Street (lack of crossing options, opportunities for removal of slips)
vii. Parnell Rise / Parnell Road
viii. Symonds St on to Southern Motorway (no pedestrian crossing)
ix. Left-turn slip from Symonds St onto Karangahape Road
x. Left-turn from Parnell Road to Ayr Street.

6. Develop and deliver a Master Plan for Ponsonby Road
Auckland Transport to continue the development of the Masterplan for Ponsonby Road, taking a complete street/living arterial approach to meet the community’s desired outcomes (eg, slower traffic, pedestrian friendly, heritage protection and improved urban design) in conjunction with urban design officers at Auckland Council.

7. Develop a Master Plan for Richmond Road
Auckland Transport to develop a Masterplan for Richmond Road taking a complete street/living arterial approach to meet the community’s desired outcomes (eg slower traffic, pedestrian friendly, improved urban design), taking into account previous research including the 2011 safety audit. The plan will then be delivered in the 2013-2014 financial year.

8. Upgrade Franklin Road
Auckland Transport to undertake the planned upgrade of Franklin Road to provide for safe and continuous walking and cycling pathways from Ponsonby Road to Victoria Park including continuous pedestrian facilities (ie, an unbroken footpath on both sides of the road) across all side streets, driveways and intersections (for example by installing raised tables).

9. Develop and implement a residential parking zone scheme for the central Auckland suburbs
Auckland Transport to develop and implement a residential parking zone scheme to manage the problem of commuter parking for residents in central Auckland suburbs.

10. Support of other (non-transport) draft local board agreement priorities
Auckland Transport to support other Waitemata Local Board agreement priorities including:
· Support the introduction of three swales in the Local Board area
· Support delivery of green walls, roofs and community gardens on Auckland Transport assets e.g. car park buildings
· Support development of green links connecting parks and open spaces.
Feedback on the draft Local Board Agreement transport initiatives can be provided as part of the LTP consultation until 23 March (refer http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/EN/AboutCouncil/PlansPoliciesPublications/Long_term_plan/Pages/haveyoursay.aspx)
Consultation on the draft Regional Land Transport Programme (RLTP) is being undertaken alongside the Long-term Plan. The RLTP will summarise the transport priorities for Auckland over the next 10 years so the Transport Portfolio is working to ensure that our local board priorities are also included in this document. I attended the cluster workshop on 2 February for Auckland Transport to inform all Local Boards about the RLTP as well as a presentation from the Bylaws review team on the preliminary consultation on a Speed Limits Bylaw and a Traffic Bylaw.

As part of February’s Bike wise month I attended the launch of Auckland Transport’s summer cycling guide in Aotea Square and the Go by Bike Breakfast on 15 February. I attended the Walking and Cycling Conference in Hastings (22-24 February) with Christopher Dempsey (a full report will be attached to our April agenda). In February I also attended the Governing Body’s Transport committee.

Community
Auckland Council’s consultation on the draft Long Term plan 2012-2022 commenced at the end of February. For the Board this involves hosting 3 community meetings starting in Parnell on 28 February. I presented on behalf of the Board with an overview of the initiatives in our draft Local Board Agreement which forms part of the draft LTP. Consultation is open until 23 March.

At the Economic Forum on Monday 13 February we moved closer to Auckland becoming Fairtrade. I spoke to the Forum in support of the Board’s resolution passed in May 2011 (WTM/2011/85)That the Waitemata Local Board recommends to the Governing Body of Auckland Council that Auckland becomes a Fair Trade City.

The Economic Forum voted to recommend to the Regional Development and Operations Committee and the Tenders and Procurement Subcommittee that Auckland Council support Auckland being a Fairtrade region.(Resolution number ED/2012/7)
On 28 February I presented with Tricia Reade the Board’s community initiatives and projects to the Social and Community Development Forum at the invitation of the Chair, Cr Casey. During February I also contributed to the Board’s submission on Auckland Council’s draft Waste Minimisation and Management Plan (attached to the March agenda).

Other board activities

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

• Local Boards cluster workshop on 2 February
• Waitemata Local Board workshop on 7 February
• Meeting to discuss the location of water fountains (project led by Jesse Chalmers)
• Local Boards cluster meeting for an update on the current position with regards to financial contributions – how they are collected and being spent in the legacy areas and a summary of the Draft Integrated Contributions Policy 2012 that will be consulted on as part of the LTP process.
• Meeting with Toni Giacon; Acquisitions and Disposals Advisor, ACPL to discuss the potential disposal of 3 Ponsonby Road.
• Meeting on 10 February with a multi-disciplinary team from Auckland Transport, Auckland Council, and a representative of the Auckland War Memorial Museum and Councillors Lee and Coney to discuss issues associated with cycling and pedestrian safety through the Auckland Domain.
• Meeting and lunch with Civic contractors on 17 February
• Local Board business meeting in Parnell on 14 February
• Waitemata Local Board workshop on 28 February

Events and functions

• I attended the following events and functions during February:
• Lantern Festival in Albert Park
• Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra concert at the invite of Q Theatre
• Playing in the Streets event in Queen Street (sponsored by the Board) on Sunday 19 February

Portfolio reports

Transport

RLTP-  I worked with officers and member Dempsey to finalise the Board’s feedback on the draft Regional Land Transport Programme (RLTP).  We raised a number of issues with the draft document in particular the failure to align high-level plans and strategies that drive investment with local board plans and priorities. We also noted the absence of City Centre Master plan and Waterfront plan transport projects which we believe should be included as the RLTP is required to cover all transport activities in the Auckland region. A copy of the submission is attached to the agenda.

Proposed Traffic and Speed Limit Bylaws -  Feedback was also provided in March on the proposed Traffic and Speed Limit Bylaws. Our submission included a request that the clause allowing AT to make some roads and shared spaces one-way for motor vehicles, also provides for two-ways for cyclists and other active transport modes (e.g. contra-flows).

Report back from 2Walk and Cycle conference 22-24 February, Hastings – Member Dempsey has prepared a comprehensive report back on the 2Walk and Cycle Conference I also attended in Hastings (22-24 February). As he concludes in the report there are several key messages:

• Cycling and walking offers health benefits far in excess of costs (this requires a “whole of government” approach to invest in future proofing cities to reduce diseases of modern living)
• It is important to properly fund infrastructure to secure these substantial benefits (we saw the direct benefits in Hawkes Bay where the installation of cycle lanes and pathways is resulting in huge increases in everyday cycling for transport and cycle tourism).
• Political leadership is needed in supporting the critical development of cycling/walking infrastructure.

School bike tracks – I had the opportunity to attend the opening of Wellsford Primary School’s Te Huanui Cycle Track on 9 March at the invitation of Harbour Sport. This is only the second track in Auckland based on the Bike-On initiative developed in Hastings by Paul McArdle to get kids back on bikes and exercising in a safe environment. As Auckland Transport reported at the Regional Walking and Cycling Forum on 13 March they are supporting the development of more bike tracks and will shortly be releasing a “How to” manual for schools. In the Waitemata Local Board area I have been involved with a group assisting Grey Lynn School to install a bike track around the school grounds. However this project has now been put on hold while new classrooms and a hall development are underway.

Monthly transport updates -  Transport catch ups were held with the Transport portfolio and relevant officers from Auckland Transport on 1st March (postponed from February) and 23 March. The issues discussed are reported back monthly by AT on our public agenda.

Parking at the zoo -  On 19 March I met with the CEO of Auckland Zoo and Natalie Hansby, Manager, Visitor Experience and Business Development to discuss the traffic calming proposed by AT on Motions Road and the installation of a signalised intersection at Great North Road/Motions Road Next steps: A number of actions arose from the meeting including improvements to the bus stops servicing the Zoo and a longer term plan to provide for parking for the wider precinct.

Parnell roundabout  – AT have proposed a roundabout at the intersection of Parnell Rise and Parnell Road in order cope with the increase in the number of cars expected to be generated from the new Geyser development. On 26 March I met with representatives from Parnell Inc, AT and the Parnell Community Committee to discuss concerns raised by local businesses that the roundabout will increase congestion on Parnell Road. Next steps: AT is in the process of responding to a number of issues before taking this project further.

Parnell Station and the old Parnell tunnel – On 8 March Nick Seymour of Auckland Transport took members of the Board on a walk around the Mainland Stream site and to the entrance of the old tunnel. We had an opportunity to see the retaining work alongside the Waipapa stream as well as look around the Domain underpass and plans for the Domain ramps/stairs.

Community

LTP consultation -  Two community meetings were held in March to discuss the draft Long Term plan 2012-2022 and our draft Local Board Agreement which forms part of the draft LTP. The Mayor and Cr Lee attended the meeting on 1 March at the Grey Lynn RSC. I also visited the LTP road show at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market on 18 March. The feedback I have received from the community is that the online submission form was incredibly difficult to understand and was a deterrent to providing feedback on a huge number of important issues.

I had the opportunity to discuss the Board’s transport priorities that form part of the LTP in an interview on Bfm’s Green desk on 13 March.

Fairtrade – During March the Regional Development and Operations Committee and the Tenders and Procurement Subcommittee supported the Economic Forum’s recommendation to make Auckland Fairtrade. This is the final stage of the political process that was kicked off in May last year with the Waitemata Local Board’s resolution recommending to the Governing Body of Auckland Council that Auckland becomes a Fair Trade City.  Next steps: work is now underway within Auckland Council to obtain Fair trade status in time for Fair trade fortnight in May.

Hearings on the Auckland Council’s draft Waste Minimisation and Management Plan -  I attended the hearings with member Dempsey on 26 March as part of Local Board feedback on the draft plan. I also attended the public hearings to support the Grey Lynn 2030 waste away submission. The councillors on the hearings panel are to be congratulated for the enthusiasm and genuine interest with which they are receiving submissions which has made submitters feel part of a robust and transparent process.

Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio – A range of meetings were attended during March relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below

Grey Lynn Business Association

Attended one of the GLBA’s fortnightly meetings in March. I am following up on a number of issues for GLBA members including the beautification of the Surrey Cres shops, bike parking outside the new Kokako café and progress on the Williamson Ave Fire station development.

Newmarket Business Association – Attended the presentation to the Board on the NBA’s strategic plan and current initiatives. I also attended the NBA’s fashion in the street event on 24 March.

Other board activities

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

• Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with AT on 1st and 23rd March
• Meeting to discuss allocation of Waitemata LB’s  LIPS and Discretionary CAPEX on 1 March
• Meeting with Kiwirail to discuss use of old Parnell Rail tunnel as a connection to Newmarket (part of the Board’s “green link” aspirations)
• A number of RLTP discussion meetings to prepare our submission on the draft RLTP
• Local Board engagement as part of the LTP consultation at the Grey Lynn RSC attended by the Mayor and Cr Lee on 1 March and on 6 March at the Board offices, Graham Street
• Transport Committee meeting on 6 March including presentations by Cycle Action Auckland and the Greenways Project
• Tour of Highwic House and a presentation over morning tea hosted by Cheryl Laurie, Manager Highwic
• Waitemata Local Board workshops on 6 March , 20 and 27  March
• Regional Walking and cycling forum on 13 March
• CBD advisory board meeting (in the absence of the Chair)
• Local Board business meeting in Grey Lynn on 13 March
• Isthmus Joint Funding Committee Workshop
• Chinese Garden site in Western Springs Park – briefing by Shyrel Burt on 19 March
• Parnell Trust – Community Facilities City Centre area meeting with Phillippa Pitcher and Anne Barrowclough
• Tepid Baths Presentation to Waitemata Local Board
• Delegations to Chief Executive – workshop on 20 March with the Auckland Council executive team and local board members from Waitemata, Albert- Eden and Waiheke Local Boards
• Working lunch with directors and senior team of Waterfront Auckland on 22 March
• LanzaTech & opportunities to support growth in Auckland meeting hosted by ATEED
• Meeting with Geoff Chamberlain and Kate Roberts to discuss medium-long term library development in the Wynard Quarter, the Parnell Library lease and also the Grey Lynn and Leys Institute libraries on 22 March. ·
• EDS strategy workshop for local board members to discuss issues with Councillors and Harvey Brookes
• Local Boards Treaty Settlements briefing on 26 March
• Auckland Conversation on 28 March – 10 presentations from 10 cities moderated by Greg Clark (part of the Sea Edge symposium for waterfront development leaders)
• Governing Body meeting on 29 March for signing off the Auckland Plan – travelled to the Manukau Chamber with Member Dempsey by bike and train in recognition of the Plan’s aim to create the world’s most liveable city Communications update with Kim Reed and the Chair
• Meeting with Tricia Reade to meet the new community lease advisor Local Boards Unitary Plan Symposium on 30 March
• Meeting with Emily Harris from Urban Pantry to discuss a community garden on the Cross Street car park off K’rd

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during March:

• Launch of Seaweek at Auckland Zoo
• Try my Bike at the Lake House in Takapuna (an Auckland Transport event in association with Frocks on Bike)
• International Women’s Day Celebration at Khartoum Place on 8 March
• Pacifika festival at Western Springs
• Walk to work day breakfast at Pigeon Park
• Cycle Action’s associates breakfast
• Chairman’s inaugural lunch at the Voyager Museum
• Volvo Ocean Race Auckland Leg Four Prize giving Dinner
• Movies in the Park in Grey Lynn
• Ponsonby Market Day
• AT’s family fun bike day
• NBA’s fashion in the street
• Cycle Style (an Auckland Transport funded event in association with Frocks on Bike)
• Launch of the Social Entrepreneurs School. Opening on The Kitchen – a new shared work space for social entrepreneurs
• Cycle Action public meeting
• Richmond Road School gala on Saturday 31 March

I’ve done a quick submission on a number of areas that the Electoral Commission must review:

The 5 per cent party vote threshold for a party to be eligible for allocation of list seats.

I support the lowering of the party vote threshold to 4% or below to compensate for the abolition of the one electorate seat threshold

The one electorate seat threshold for a party to be eligible for allocation of list seats.

The one seat electorate threshold should be abolished with a consequent lowering of the percentage of the party vote threshold. I support this because it is more consistent with the proportional nature of MMP and means everyone’s vote count, no matter where they live in New Zealand.

The effect of a party’s candidates winning more seats than the party would be entitled to as a result of the party vote on the ratio of electorate seats to list seats.

I agree with maintaining the status quo, so that an overhang is allowed. Changing the status quo will not resolve any issue of unfairness to parties or proportionality.

The capacity of a person to be both a constituency candidate and list candidate.

I agree with maintaining the status quo, so that dual candidacy is kept

Dual candidacy ensures greater gender and ethnic representation. The number of women candidates is declining (from 29% in 2008 to 28% in 2011) the creation of two mutually exclusive pools will require more women and a greater rate of attrition in both pools. The abolition may have the unintended effect of reducing the diversity of Parliament. Denying dual candidacy could drastically reduce the calibre of candidates standing for seats they are unlikely to win, short- changing voters as a result. If there was an unexpected swing to a Party, low calibre electorate candidates for that Party would be elected at the expense of higher calibre and more diverse list candidates.

The capacity of a list MP to stand as a candidate in a by-election

Maintain the status quo, allow List MPs to contest by-elections. There appears to be no reason why a list MP should not stand in a by-election.