Deputy Chairs Report Danielle Grant Feb 2019

Members report for the period 12 December 2018 to 20 February 2019

Freedom Camping Bylaws

Freedom Camping in the Kaipatiki area, specifically at Dudding Sports Field in Little Shoal Bay and at Birkenhead War Memorial Park has caused considerable concern for many in our community.  The Kaipatiki Local Board had previously resolved our feedback to not support Freedom Camping in these areas.

A public meeting was called on Thursday 7 February 2019.  Local Board members attended and heard many concerns being raised about the current numbers of freedom campers in the area, the lack of facilities to support these visitors, the proximity to stands of native Kauri trees, the proximity to sports fields and that Little Shoal Bay sits within a flood plain, and regularly floods through the Dudding Sports Field carpark, are on a king tide.  Concerns were also raised about the lack of enforcement, with limited budgets being provided for this activity and the suggestion that compliance would be voluntary.   Submissions closed on 17 February for the Have Your Say community consultation. 

Recommendation:
That the Kaipatiki Local Board:
a) Support the Chairperson to speak to the Regulatory Committee on behalf of the Local Board regarding the Freedom Camping Bylaw in order to articulate the board’s position on the issue.

b} Request that the Regulatory Committee reconsider its position regarding the establishment of a general rule within the Freedom Camping Bylaw, that would restrict use of other places not specified in the bylaw. 

Chinese and Korean New Year Festival in Northcote

This year’s Festival was well attended on Saturday 9 February 2019. The event provided an opportunity to talk with the Northcote Town Centre Association.  They raised concerns about the reduction in foot traffic for local businesses, resulting in a drop in revenues and uncertainty around the next stages in the development of the Town Centre.  These concerns were also shared with Panuku Development Auckland. With the significant residential development in the Northcote area, there has been a decrease in the immediate number of local residents while houses are being constructed.

A meeting was arranged on 18 February with Panuku and the Chair and Deputy Chair, supported by our staff.  It is encouraging that Panuku are working towards a Master Plan that will be shared with the Local Board at our March board meeting. Panuku will continue to work closely with the Northcote Town Centre Assn to attract customers to the area and to seek their engagement in the Northcote Master Plan over the coming months. 

Movies in Parks

Movies in Parks held on Friday 1 February 2019 at the Harvey Wright Sports Field, in Birkenhead War Memorial Park was well attended, by over 2,000 people.  Small Foot, a children’s animated movie was a popular choice, with many families attending the event.