Rodney ~ OI.STRrCT COUNOL. MAP68 (Adjoins Map 21) Public Transport. Current District Plan Zoning General Rur~~ \

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1 2.9.1 Public Transport Public transport is limited. The nearest bus service is located at Waiwera (located approximately 6 kms south of Puhoi). There is a daily coach service (NakedBus) which operates from Warkworth to Auckland. There are also daily bus services run by the Ministry of Education which take students from Puhoi and surrounding rural districts to nearby education facilities. There are no rail facilities Current District Plan Zoning The District Plans (both Operative and Proposed) provide for the strategic and administrative management of the District's resources. Similar to the Operative Plan (which still carries some legislative weight), the Proposed District Plan 2 includes a special zone for Puhoi. The 'Special 14 (Puhoi Historic Village) zone' provides a zone overlay, the intention of which is to protect and control the effects on heritage and amenity of the historic area. The Proposed Plan also has an 'Historic Precinct' within the Special 14 Zone which includes the historic 'core' of the Village, as shown on the Zoning Map below. Within the Special 14 zone, the minimum lot size is 4m 2 The Puhoi Historic Precinct sits within the Special 14 Zone and has a 4 hectare-minimum lot size. The remaining catchment/study-area is zoned General Rural, with some land to the north-west of the Village zoned Countryside Living Rural. General Rur~~ \ MAP68 (Adjoins Map 21) PUHOI $it ~wll~.w r.ulf """lflorc:e "'prhethepiihellthtwkl'rtdmi Fig. 8 Proposed District Plan - Puhoi Village Zoning Land in the General Rural zone is characterised by large properties, low intensity of settlement and significant landscapes and natural areas. The Countryside Living Rural zone seeks to retain rural character while at the same time allowing countryside living opportunities. Puhoi Structure Plan - September ' Rodney ~ OI.STRrCT COUNOL

2 All zones within the Puhoi study area have further subdivision opportunities, albeit limited. Within the Special 14 and Countryside Living Rural zones, there may be approximately 4 potential new lots able to be created under the current zoning. An indication of subdivision capacity within the General Rural zone is identified on the map at Appendix B. One Restricted Activity overlay (#316) has also been imposed on a property in Puhoi Rd which makes erection, addition or alteration to a building or structure within the area a Discretionary Activity. This was to protect a key backdrop to the Village (when viewed South from the Village core). A large block of land (approximately 18ha) comprising 5 titles to the north of the catchment was recently subject to an Environment Court decision (Prime Resources Co vs Rodney District Council) in which development rights were established and which will yield approximately 24 residential titles Planning Context Auckland Regional Council The Auckland Regional Growth Strategy (ARGS) is a region-wide document released in 1999 which provides an over-arching guideline for projected growth in the Auckland region. Puhoi, while not identified on a detailed level, is stated (with other rural villages/areas) as being one with high environmental constraints. Growth is not predicted for the area due to environmental and physical constraints. It states: "... development of the most highly valued and sensitive natural areas is avoided. The unsuitability of such areas for future urban development is emphasised. Such areas range from the Waitakere and Hunua ranges which are significant park lands and water supply areas, to the Waiwera, Okura, eastern Waiheke Island, Whitford/Mangemangeroa and Puhoi areas which also have significant environmental values worthy of protection from urbanisation. " n The Auckland Regional Policy Statement {ARPS) sets out high level issues, objectives and policies for the Auckland region in order to achieve the purpose of the Resource Management Act Limits on urban growth are imposed through the Metropolitan Urban Limit (MUL). Puhoi is located outside the MUL and, as such, the ARPS does not anticipate any future intensification in this area. The Draft Auckland Land Transport Strategy {ARLTS) sets the overall direction for the Region's transport network that supports the objectives of the ARGS. The ARLTS identifies six strategic priorities to achieve an integrated, safe, responsive and sustainable land transport system that can cope with the demands of increased population. These include: continuing to improve public transport integrating transport and land use to support a compact and contained urban form changing travel behaviours improving the operation of existing roads building limited additional roads and reducing the impact of travel of the environment and communities Puhoi Structure Plan - September ' /S.T/IJCT COUI\IOL

3 Rodney District Council Vision Rodney, prepared in 28, sets out six community outcomes (in line with the requirements of the Local Government Act 22 which requires Councils to review its community outcomes every six years). The community outcomes for Rodney have been identified as : prosperous (a growing and resilient economy based on a wide variety of businesses that fit our character) vibrant (a range of recreational and cultural facilities and events across the district and we will encourage creativity and diversity) distinctive (maintain and enhance the character of our townships and rural areas through excellent urban and rural planning and the intelligent management of growth) connected (the infrastructure and services needed for our residents, business and visitors) safe & healthy (continue to have a sense of community and we will provide for the emotional and physical well-being of our people) clean and green (continue to value, protect and enjoy the natural environment) Vision Rodney is a higher-level document that does not contain references to specific places in the Rodney District. However, it is a reflection of the community's overall desires for the future of the district. Some similarities also exist between this document and the outcomes of the community meetings as part of 'Vision Puhoi', such as management of growth to ensure the 'look and feel' of a place is not lost maintenance and retention of greenbelts protection of heritage sites focus on local public transport Planning Rodney 'Planning Rodney' takes its direction from Vision Rodney, and aims to give effect to the latter document. ' Planning Rodney' is described as: 'A strategic, future-focused 'picture' of the district based on known growth, economic, social, environmental and cultural factors that indicates the direction we, as a district, are heading in. It provides focus and the staging by which we will get there. ' It sets out seven strategic elements, one of which is to take a precautionary approach to growth in a number of towns under pressure before agreeing to commit major resources to these towns. Puhoi is identified as one such area, along with Matakana, Snells Beach/Aigies Bay, Waiwera, Riverhead, Waimauku and Kaukapakapa. As in other documents, it is identified as being constrained by its physical features and the lack of public infrastructure (water and wastewater). Puhoi Structure Plan - September ~ OISTRrCT COUNCJL

4 Rodney District Council Rural Strategy The Rural Strategy is a long term (25 year) outcome focused strategy, the purpose of which is to: foster a sustainable rural economy; protect and enhance rural landscapes and rural character; improve rural development outcomes for communities and the environment; protect the future benefits of un-built areas and open space; manage settlement edges and green belts in the District It recognises that many small rural settlements and Villages, (including Puhoi), have difficult growth-management challenges. The rural strategy proposes to develop a toolkit of statutory and non-statutory instruments such as plan changes, design guides and Council-led support initiatives. Puhoi Structure Plan - September 21 llfl1'> Rodney ' OIST/I.rC1 COIIr\tQL 28

5 3. Structure Plan Options The specific outcomes and desires of the Community consultation process, 'Vision Puhoi' and the supporting background information have been evaluated to establish a number of Structure Plan options. Each of these have been considered together with a comment about how these might be implemented. The end of each section includes recommended options, highlighted in a separate box. Protecting the rural surrounds, enhancing the Village core and protecting the historic amenity of the Village underpin the options. Means of implementation could be through Variations/Plan Changes to the District Plan, through the Annual Plan and Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP), and through infrastructure and other works projects. Various community initiatives could also implement some Structure Plan options. 3.1 r' In summary, the Structure Plan proposes the following: no planned change in zoning to provide for residential intensification within the catchment alter Special 14 provisions to incorporate design guidelines and provide revised controls on development within the Village core revise controls on development within key rural backdrops to ensure that development is not visually intrusive and blends with the surrounding landscape enhance the entrance to the Village through roadside planting and landscaping identify specific areas within the Village Special 14 zone to provide further retail/commercial opportunities promote community initiatives for a heritage brochure and a heritage walk promote recommendations of the Puhoi Walkway/Cycleway Feasibility report implement the recommendations of the Traffic Calming Project promote an ecological survey of the catchment in conjunction with work already being undertaken Residential - Managing future growth Analysis of the available technical documents describe Puhoi as having significant physical constraints which limit development. Review of Regional and District Plans and strategies indicate that Puhoi is not identified as suitable for intensification due to various growth-management challenges, as described in the previous supporting background discussion. Overall, it is recognised that the Puhoi catchment has little capacity to absorb any further intensification other than that already provided for under current zoning, if it is to maintain its historic character and rural feel. A strong theme emerging from the community consultation process was the desire to limit the size and spread of further development in the Puhoi catchment and to retain Puhoi 'as is.' Responses received from the community during the 'visioning' consultation in terms of growth-management were focused around retaining the historic and rural character of the Village, preventing inappropriate development, addressing issues about land-management, keeping the current zoning controls on the land, and retaining the historic, small-town 'look and feel' of Puhoi. Puhoi Structure Plan - September ~ OJST/I.rCT COUNCIL

6 Growth is nonetheless occurring within the Puhoi catchment and current zoning allows for additional subdivision. Within the Special 14 and Countryside Living areas for example, an estimated 4 new lots may be created. Land previously owned by Prime Resources (which lies to the north of the river and comprises some 18 hectares), has development rights for approximately 24 new lots. This matter was decided by the Environment Court decision (ENV-27-AKL-239) in 29, and allows development subject a comprehensive development plan being prepared). No application has yet been made to develop the land. The wider General Rural zone also allows for further growth and subdivision. While this is more difficult to quantify and depends on opportunities for bushlot subdivision, a map showing general subdivision capacity is attached at Appendix B. It is considered that an anticipated small but gradual increase in population would be accommodated under existing controls, while still ensuring the rural environment is maintained. The adoption of design guidelines in to the District Plan would ensure further development or subdivision within the catchment is in keeping with rural character. To preserve the rural and historic character of the Puhoi Catchment, the Structure Plan: 1. retains existing controls for future subdivision 2 incorporates Design Guidelines into the District Plan through a Variation or Plan Change 3.2 Residential - Special 14 Zone () The issue of building design, location and siting were identified as key matters to ensure the retention and enhancement of the character of Puhoi Village during community consultation. Identified as important were: development of design guidelines for both new developments and redevelopments within the Special 14 Zone ensuring development is in keeping with rural character The Special 14 zone provisions were developed to protect the historic and rural residential character of the Puhoi Village. The provisions contain particular assessment criteria for certain activities within the zone. While these encourage development to be in keeping with the residential and historic character of the zone, there are no specific guidelines which describe the features and elements that contribute to this character. The Guidelines describe the character and establish performance standards for future development that will ensure this character is not compromised. The 'Puhoi Design Guidelines' (hereafter referred to as the 'Guidelines' and attached at Appendix E) have been developed in conjunction with the Structure Plan to offer some guiding principles for future development both within the historic village and the wider catchment. They identify the built form elements Puhoi Structure Plan - September 21 3 ~ OISTRrCT COIR\IOl

7 that contribute to the historic vernacular of Puhoi and recommend design standards for buildings, structures and landscape treatments in the wider area. They will be used by developers, land-owners and Council staff when undertaking or assessing development within the Village and wider district to ensure that design, materials, siting and landscape treatment are in keeping with the historic character and amenity of Puhoi. In terms of the Special 14 Zone, the Guidelines provide design direction for the treatment of buildings and structures within the village zone, including architectural style principles, materials, landscaping and boundary treatments. The Structure Plan proposes to incorporate the Guidelines into the District Plan so they form an integral part of the assessment process when considering resource consent applications within the Village zone. The Guidelines also establish appropriate treatment of structures and buildings within the 'public realm', namely road reserves and open space areas. It is noted, for example, that "where there is a need identified for improved pedestrian facilities it is important that the materials used reflect the historic characteristics of the village and do not create a harsh, highly engineered pedestrian environment." It is recognised that cost and funding is an issue, but where possible it is important that appropriate thought goes into the design and materials to ensure they are in keeping with Village character. Accordingly, the Structure Plan promotes review of codes of practice and engineering standards to ensure pedestrian and roadside treatments have a rural focus. Also raised as part of public consultation was the issue of current District Plan rules and assessment criteria not being followed rigorously enough, resulting in developments which are not in keeping with the character and amenity of the area, particularly within the Village. There is scope to strengthen the rules and assessment criteria in the Special 14 zone. Under the proposed District Plan, the Special 14 zone divides the Historic Precinct and the remainder of the Special 14 zone into two separate categories containing two sets of activity-status. A case could be made to amalgamate these and apply the more restrictive (precinct) threshold to the Special 14 zone as a whole. The Structure Plan proposes the following options for ensuring Puhoi character and amenity is promoted and maintained in developments within the Village zone : Alter the Special 14 Zone rules through a District Plan variation/plan Change to: 1 incorporate the Design Guidelines for Puhoi into the District Plan 2 strengthen the assessment criteria for development within the Special 14 Zone, and 3 ensure the status for activities within the Special 14 zone applies to the entire zone Puhoi Structure Plan - September ' OISfRrcr CO!JNCJJ..

8 3.3 Residential - Village Backdrops and View Corridors There are a number of key backdrops that contribute to the characteristic Puhoi vista. These include particular ridges and spurs which are visible from strategic points within the Village and around the Village. The Structure Plan includes a landscape analysis which identifies key visual corridors, ridgelines and spurs. (Refer the Puhoi Village and Environs Landscape Analysis attached at Appendix C). The Guidelines also take into consideration development in the wider catchment area where views/view shafts are of particular significance. To retain these attractive backdrops to the Village and to ensure important vistas are appropriately managed, it is necessary to establish development controls that will ensure future development achieves the objectives and outcomes recommended for these areas. As part of the community consultation, the following issues were identified as important: protecting key ridgelines from development ensuring development is in keeping with rural character protecting view corridors The Landscape Analysis makes a number of recommendations to ensure that built form does not undermine key vistas and the contribution they make to the remote landscape character of Puhoi. An option of the Structure Plan is to incorporate the identified character zones into the District Plan by way of Plan Change/Variation. Where applicable, Restricted Activity overlays could be imposed which may contain particular criteria and restrictions on built form within the areas according to their landscape significance. A current example, illustrated below, is the backdrop to the Village (part of the southern core backdrop) which has a restricted overlay (Restricted Overlay # 316 which contains a specific activity status and additional assessment criterion for development). Fig 9 - Southern core backdrop to Village Puhoi Structure Plan - September ' Rodney ~ DIST/I.rCT COIJNOL

9 Any development within the areas identified as sensitive landscape areas would be subject to the design guidelines developed as part of the Structure Plan. The purpose of this is not to restrict or prevent development as it is currently allowed by the District Plan, but rather to ensure development is in keeping with rural and historic character of the Village. In order to protect key vistas, view shafts and the rural backdrops to the Village, the Structure Plan proposes the following option: 1. Incorporate into the District Plan (by way of Plan Change/Variation) key landscape character zones and by way of associated Restricted Activity overlay Is 2 Ensure that the findings and recommendations of the Landscape Puhoi Village and Environs Landscape Analysis are incorporated into the assessment criteria relating to the Restricted Overlayjs 1..Eastern escarpment 2. Upper Valley Floor 3. Western Slopes 4. Village Fringe 5. Saleyards Valley 6. Northern Core Backdrop 7. Northern Historic Core 8. Southern Historic Core 9. Recreation park 1.. Southern Core Backdrop Lower Valley Floor 1.2. Entrance Road 1.3. Entrance Flats 1.4. Entrance Hill Puhoi Structure Plan - September ' DISTIUCT COUNC!l

10 3.4 Village Entrance There is only one vehicular entrance to the Village from State Highway 1 to Puhoi Rd, which is designated as a collector road. This is well sign-posted from State Highway 1, both on the approach and at the corner of Puhoi Rd: Fig 1- signage to Puhoi from SH 1 Fig.11 -Approach to Puhoi Village from State Highway 1 The approach to the Village is a winding road, flanked by partially vegetated berms with a variety of vegetation species (totara, kanuka, pittosporum, coprosma etc and some exotic species). There are areas on road reserve where planting and/or weed control would enhance the entrance and contribute further to the 'avenue' feel to the Villageapproach. Filling in the 'gaps' with appropriate native plantings would do this Puhoi Structure Plan - September "' OJSTRrCI COilNOl

11 (and is illustrated in Fig.12 overleaf). Further, an appropriate location for 'Welcome to Puhoi' signage would create a formal 'arrival' point to the Village, and would coincide well with the proposed eastern threshold traffic-calming treatment (discussed in section 3.9). Overall, this would also contribute to the community's vision to "create a heart to the Village in the form of a focal centre and enhance the Bohemian character in the centre, making Puhoi a destination." The Landscape Analysis identifies the entrance road as establishing a "strong threshold [which] reinforces its sense of disconnection and remoteness." It is identified as character zone 12 in the analysis. It recommends that the entrance road be maintained in its current form, with additional planting undertaken along its entire length. The recommendation also suggests that any entrance signage be subservient to the shrine (which is a listed historic item) and be understated so as it remains in keeping with the austere Village character. Community thought could be given to the development of a distinct Puhoi 'theme' which could then be carried over to other street furniture, signage and lighting within the Village itself, to strengthen and further identify the Village 'core.' This is discussed in the Puhoi Design Guidelines (public realm). To enhance the entrance to Puhoi Village, the Structure Plan proposes the following options: 1. implement appropriate landscaping and planting along the length of Puhoi Road from State Highway 1. to the Village threshold 2 identify a location for entrance signage to reinforce the threshold to the Village Puhoi Structure Plan - September _. Rodney ~ OISTRrCT COUf\1 1.

12 3.5 Rural Business and Economy The issue of rural business opportunities was identified during the consultation process. The future 'look and feel' of the catchment in terms of economy and business included: appropriate commercial development to a limited degree limited retail development permit cottage industry Current provisions allow for a number of commercial and business opportunities, such as home occupations (business, trade, craft or profession in association with a household unit), and products from or sales of primary produce grown on the property, as well as farm and homestays. There are numerous examples of these types of small commercial ventures within the catchment, many of which make a contribution to Puhoi's local economy. Puhoi Structure Plan - September ' /ST/I.rCT COtJII'CJ.L

13 Enhancing the Village core (creating a "heart") is desired by residents for the purpose of promoting Puhoi as a 'destination' and encouraging economic benefits to the Village. (It should also be noted that a number of other Structure Plan actions would support and promote this, including those focused on heritage protection, traffic-calming and landscaping the Village entrance/road reserve). The Countryside Living and Special 14 zones do not offer many specific opportunities for business and employment per se. Land that is zoned for other purposes is currently utilised for retail activities. In addition to dwellings, forestry/farming activities are the primary ones allowed. Interest was expressed during the workshop to allow for limited and controlled commercial ventures. n The Property Economics Report (refer Supporting Document) anticipated that annual retail expenditure in the Puhoi area would increase from $57, (26) to $1.4m in 226. It also predicted that up to 6m 2 of retail space could be needed by 226 (including the 323m 2 currently being utilised as retail space now). The report also noted that Puhoi captures a lot of sales from passing traffic resulting from the well-known pub and Puhoi cheese factory. The Integrated Traffic Assessment (ITA - refer Supporting Document) also makes the observation that traffic to Puhoi Village increased by 32% at the weekend, supporting the fact that Puhoi is a very popular destination for visitors/tourists. It is considered there is scope to provide for some further small-scale opportunities for future retail/commercial activities to recognise the needs of the community. Future retail/commercial space is appropriate to provide local goods and services that accommodate the immediate needs of residents and visitors. Major services and retail would continue to be sought at the neighbouring larger centres of Orewa and Warkworth. For Puhoi, there are considerations particular to the Village that must be considered when recommending any future additional retail space, such as the constraints of topography, flooding, traffic issues (in particular available parking) and retention of historic amenity. It is also important to ensure any further retail/commercial activity is concentrated within the Village 'hub' and does not bleed into surrounding areas. Any future change to provisions for retail/commercial activities within the Special 14 zone would need to be small-scale and build on the existing nature of the Village, consolidating its role within the catchment. This would complement pedestrian access around the Village. Encouraging the use of existing buildings would also ensure the Village 'hub' remains contained. With these considerations in mind, the Structure Plan identifies two discrete areas within the Special 14 zone which should be investigated as possible future areas to accommodate retail/commercial activity or re-development. These are logical sites in terms of their location within the current historic precinct and their existing use (temporary fire station and existing General Store) and landscape considerations. It will be important that any new development or re-development on these sites is designed and constructed in sympathy with the historic built form vernacular of the immediately surrounding area and does not compromise views from the Village and road to the Puhoi Hotel. This may require preparation of additional design guidelines to accompany any future changes to the District Plan provisions. Puhoi Structure Plan - September ~ /ST/I.fCT COUN(JL

14 A policy overlay which allows more perm1ss1ve rules (for example, a change in activity status from discretionary to restricted discretionary) for certain activities on these sites would be applied via a District Plan variation/plan change. The effect of this would be to consolidate and contain the Village on the western side of Puhoi Rd (as indicated in Fig.l3 below) and ensure that future non-residential activities such as retail and commercial are associated with the existing Village hub and are contained within the most appropriate locations. Future redevelopment would be subject to full assessment under the District Plan (and in accordance with the other options proposed by the Structure Plan) which would specify that they be limited to small-scale, rural-focused activities and services. To recognise opportunities for further retail/commercial activities within Puhoi Village, the Structure Plan proposes the following options: 1 identify discrete sites to accommodate future development of retail/commercial activities and introduce a Scheduled Activity for these areas via a District Plan Variation/Plan Change 2 Promote the consolidation of the Village by encouraging the use of existing building and recognising natural and physical constraints Fig.13 Puhoi Structure Plan - September ~ OISTRrCT COUNOl

15 3.6 Heritage The protection and enhancement of Puhoi's heritage is of significant interest to the community and this emerged strongly during the consultation process. The character of Puhoi is effectively influenced and defined by its history. A variety of proposals for the retention and enhancement of the historic core were suggested during community consultation, including : establishing a Village centre 'heart' with a distinct character and form upgrade and maintain the environment surrounding historic buildings and land include the cemetery in the Historic Precinct establish a Heritage Village zone with strict design controls to include structures, materials, paving, reading, planting etc identify significant places and register with the Historic Places Trust all new buildings within the historic precinct to be a discretionary activity and notified expand the historic precinct boundary The Structure Plan proposes to identify key action areas to meet the community's desire for continued protection and enhancement of Puhoi's historic heritage, as well as to strengthen and define the role of the Village. It is possible that other heritage or archaeological structures/sites may be identified as part of a heritage review. Even though there are various methods to recognise cultural heritage sites, inclusion in the District Plan is the most preferable way to ensure ongoing protection and recognition. Many of the other Structure Plan options will contribute implicitly to the enhancement of the historic core and ongoing preservation of heritage. For example, by incorporating design guidelines for development within the Special 14 Zone. and by ensuring further retail/commercial opportunities are identified and contained within the Village hub. The Council's Heritage Grant has made funds available in recent years for the improvement and maintenance of heritage items within the Special 14 zone. The Heritage Fund is already exhausted for the financial year but it is anticipated that there may be similar grants available under the Auckland Council after July 211. If this is the case, the Puhoi Community could continue to apply for funding to maintain and upgrade historic buildings. It should also be noted that there are other opportunities for similar funding via other organisations and commissions. The Structure Plan proposes the following options for maintaining, protecting and enhancing Puhoi's history and heritage: 1. adopt Design Guidelines which relate specifically to the Special 1.4 zone to ensure any new construction (including buildings and structures in the public realm) within the zone adopts the vernacular of the existing Village and is in keeping with the 'look and feel' of the Heritage Precinct Puhoi St ructure Plan - September ~ DISrRrcT COUNCil

16 2 promote a Heritage Review to: - determine if there are further heritage/ archaeological sites within the catchment which should be given protection under the District Plan determine if the boundary of the 'Heritage Precinct' should be expanded 3 depending on the outcomes of a Heritage Review, undertake further public consultation and promulgate a Plan Change/Variation to incorporate changes recommended 4 work with Puhoi Community to develop a heritage brochure for Puhoi 5 work with Puhoi Community to promote a self-guided heritage walk/trail which connects historic points of interest 3.7 Open Space/Walkways The issue of 'connections' and walkways were identified during public consultation. Matters raised included: building walkways along riverfront improving/completing footpaths developing a walkway system from State Highway 1 through to the DoC reserve and beyond replace ageing bridge structure include signage in all new pedestrian areas There are opportunities for improved access and open-space linkages especially in relation to those that exist already and those which can utilise natural topography, such as the river and bush tracks. A number of separate initiatives for walkability and connections in the Puhoi catchment feed into the Structure Plan. The Te Araroa (Long Pathway) initiative has been steadily progressing since 1975 when the NZ Walkways Commission was formed, with one of the goals being to create the longest scenic route in New Zealand. Of the total 3km-route, over 9% is now open and walkable, with part of the trail traversing Moirs Hill to Wenderholm route via Puhoi. The portion of the trail between Remigers Rd and Puhoi Village is, as yet, not open due to lack of agreement on the location of the trail over private land. One of the outcomes of the structure plan will be to work with Te Araroa Trust and the private landowner(s) to establish this section of the route and to ensure the trail can optimally link with the existing (and proposed) tracks under the Puhoi Memorial Park management Plan and Heritage Walks which will be promoted under the Structure Plan. The final entry and exit points of the Te Araroa walkway would be acknowledged and incorporated into any relevant future maps of access routes within the Puhoi catchment. The Management Plan for Puhoi Memorial Park is now operative (as at July 29), and several of the outcomes of this plan focus on improved connections, particularly around the reserve and river area. The proposals are incorporated Puhoi Structure Plan - September 21 4 ' OISTIUCT COUf\ICJl

17 into the Long Term Council Community Plan and include maintaining and enhancing the multi-purpose tracks to create a loop around the park and also to link in with the Te Araroa Trail. Improving the access along the Puhoi River is also an outcome of the Management Plan as is the consideration of a new walking track along the river's edge. This will address some of the community desires for improved walkability of the River. The Management Plan also included maintenance of the Memorial bridge (which is the only formal vehicular/pedestrian access from the Village to the eastern side of the village and to the park) and its possible upgrading if and when an increase in vehicular traffic or load became an issue in the future. Community initiatives include developing a self-guided walk through the Village to connect points of interest and historic sites. The Frame Group Feasibility Report for a Puhoi Walkway/Cycleway undertaken in 29 (refer Supporting Document) would effectively connect some of the other t racks/walks which are proposed or partially operational and also provide a formal cycle and walk track along the most feasible routes around Puhoi and from Puhoi to SHl. The outcomes of the study proposed some route options and indicated that the technical difficulties of providing the routes are low. Further, given the popularity of Puhoi as a destination, the proposed walkway and cycleway would attract significant use and interest. The proposal examined options for both cycle and walking tracks in three segments each. Recommendations for next steps included: reaching agreement on preferred sections of cycle & walkway obtaining/confirming agreement with private landowners on access source funding prepare designs consultation and consents procure and manage construction To improve foot and cycle access around Puhoi, an option of the Structure Plan will be to promote the recommendations of the Puhoi Walkway/Cycleway Feasibility Report undertaken by Frame Group in conjunction with the other initiatives for improved access. The Structure Plan proposes the following options for improving walkways and access in and around Puhoi: 1 promote the recommendations of the Frame Group Cycle/Walkway Feasibility Report, ensuring integration with concurrent strategies for tracks and access (such as the Te Araroa Trail and the Memorial Park Management Plan outcomes) 2 promote appropriate signage in new pedestrian/cycle areas which incorporates Puhoi's historic and rural heritage 3 support community initiatives to develop walking trails based on Puhoi's historic and rural heritage Puhoi Structure Plan - September ~ OISTP.rCT COIINCJL

18 3.8 Infrastructure Rodney District Council proposes no immediate plans to provide public wastewater or drinking water in the Puhoi catchment. As a largely undeveloped catchment, all new development is required to provide its own wastewater and potable water. As a river catchment, the low-lying and Village areas of Puhoi sustain flooding events. Management of stormwater was addressed in the technical Report on Stormwater Catchment Management Plan for Puhoi (Worleys December 1997). Some of its recommendations have been implemented. During the consultation process, the issues of better power, telephone and broadband internet were raised, in particular the inconsistency of power supply and lack of phone coverage in some areas. While the provision and quality of this infrastructure is outside the scope of the Structure Plan, communication technology is of importance to local business and the wellbeing of the community. The Structure Plan can acknowledge and advocate for better services in this regard. The Structure Plan proposes the following options for infrastructure within the Puhoi Catchment: 1 promote the ongoing recommendations of the Stormwater Catchment Management Plan for Puhoi 2 advocate for improvements to power-supply and the provision of high-speed broadband 3.9 Traffic & Transportation Community consultation as part of the development of Vision Puhoi identified some issues in regards to traffic and transportation through the Village and adjacent to the Village. These were: calm traffic through the Village (including lowering speed limit over a greater area) improve traffic safety at the intersection between SHl and Puhoi Rd establish a local bus service to Orewa or Warkworth establish a bus service from SHl to the Village While the speed limit is SO km/h through the Village 'hub' it quickly reverts to 8 km/h just past the Puhoi Tearooms approximately 6m west of the Village. Traffic & Transport Engineers Ltd provided a methodology for traffic calming in its February 28 document 'Puhoi Traffic Calming Project' (refer Supporting Document). Puhoi Structure Plan - September lf/iiji" Rodney ~ /STRrCT COUI\IQL

19 The traffic-calming measures recommended were as follows: eastern threshold (provide red strip, signage and landscaping) east of Church (provide new footpaths, Church frontage, carparking, planting & artwork and a rumble strip) Church to library (provide footpath, planting, pedestrian treatment) main square (provide pedestrian treatments, landscaping, footpaths) western threshold (provide red strip, signage and landscaping) The plans of this proposal are included in Appendix D. The Structure Plan will recommend adoption of these measures to address safety concerns. Implementation of these measures would follow the specific design-guidelines for the Village precinct to ensure they are in keeping with the historic vernacular of the Village. It is considered important that urban-scale transport infrastructure be avoided, and that informal softer, more sympathetic designs are used to achieve the objectives. Further, it is acknowledged that the Puhoi community reviewed the 'Puhoi Traffic Calming Project' and recommended some changes be made to it. The document included at Appendix D is a draft only. Implementation of the traffic calming measures would be subject to further community consultation to ensure these issues are taken into consideration. The ITA (Integrated Transport Assessment) undertaken in May 21 by Traffic and Transportation Engineers Ltd (refer Supporting Document) provided further support for the implementation of the traffic-calming and pedestrian-safety methods as outlined in its previous 'Puhoi Traffic Calming Project'. The specific recommendations were as follows: implement the recommendations provided in the Puhoi Traffic Calming Project improve cycle connections to SHl and facilities (e.g widening) on specific routes develop pedestrian network around the Village address safety issues on existing roads as they arise. While the public identified the intersection of SHl/Puhoi Rd as being dangerous, this is a priority T-junction controlled by a stop sign. T2 described the crashes that have occurred at this point since 25 as involving failure to stop/give way. This indicates that the intersection provides good visibility intersection provides for good visibility and should not raise any safety concerns. The crash history does not indicate there are any inherent safety issues at this junction. The ITA also anticipated a small, slow and steady growth pattern within the existing zoning of the area with little demand for major change to the roading network within and around the Village. Puhoi's value as a strong visitor/tourist destination was also acknowledged. The exact route and design of the Puhoi to Wellsford project (motorway extension) is still being developed. At the time of preparing this Structure Plan NZTA was proposing community consultation with the Puhoi community in relation to the motorway extension beyond Waiwera. The Structure Plan acknowledges the ongoing development of the motorway extension however at this stage of the project, no further determination of the impact on the entrance and access to and from Puhoi can be made as it is still in the preliminary design stage. Puhoi Structure Plan - September ~ Bodney ~ /STRrcr COUf\IQl

20 The RONS project pertaining to the Puhoi to Wellsford component was open for public consultation in the latter stages of drafting the Structure Plan. Council has considered its position on the proposed RONS project and expressed its support for an interchange in the vicinity of Puhoi or Mahurangi. The following is the concluding paragraph from Council's submission to the Puhoi-Wellsford RONS proposal: The Council generally concurs with the project as outlined to date but notes that in depth investigation will be necessary in detailing connectivity between the new highway at Wellsford and even more particularly at Warkworth. The Council further considers there is a strong case for connectivity to the new highway in the vicinity of Puhoi/Mahurangi West and seeks NZTA 's review and amendment of its proposals with a view to providing such connectivity. While Council supports a motorway interchange in the vicinity of Puhoi or Mahurangi, it is considered that future growth and development of Puhoi should be managed through appropriate provisions in the District Plan rather than relying on mechanisms such as the existence or otherwise of a motorway interchange, which should not be used as the basis for justifying further growth in Puhoi. Public transportation was also identified as requiring long-term action (1+ years). Puhoi does not currently have a local bus service. However, a bus/coach service runs daily along State Highway 1 past the intersection to Puhoi Rd and travels directly into Orewa. A regular service also travels the same way to Waiwera and Orewa. One of the preferred strategic options of the Draft Regional Land Transport Strategy is the extension of the northern busway to Orewa, which may indirectly improve access to and from Puhoi. This is beyond the scope of the Structure Plan, however the objective of increasing the current level of public transport is supported. To improve the traffic and pedestrian safety in Puhoi, the Structure Plan proposes the following options : 1. implement the recommendations of the Puhoi Traffic Calming Project following further consultation with the community on its final design 2 Require the construction of new landscape proposals or structures as part of the traffic calming methodology to be consistent with the rural and historic character of the Village and to follow the Design Guidelines for Puhoi Village 3 Acknowledge ongoing development of the motorway extension and its anticipated impact on the Puhoi Village and community Community Facilities The two main issues raised as part of the Vision for Puhoi in terms of improving Community Facilities were: location/building of a new Fire Station upgrade existing sporting facilities Puhoi Structure Plan - September /lfii> Rodney ~ OISTRICT COllNCIL

21 Both of these issues were addressed as part of the Puhoi Pioneers Memorial Park Management Plan which has now been adopted. The Puhoi Volunteer Rural Fire Station is to relocate to and operate from Lot 2 DP and retain the fire-siren at 1 Ahuroa Rd (the current temporary location of the station as shown in Fig.14). This is a community project which will take approximately 3-4 years to complete through fund-raising initiatives. Fig 14: Location of new Fire Station - Some additional issues were raised which the Structure Plan could promote as part of community initiatives with possible Council involvement. These include: sustainability projects including composting and inorganic collections the development of a Civil Defence Plan improve lighting along Puhoi Road include signage in pedestrian areas improve rubbish collection and recycling The Structure Plan will identify and acknowledge these goals as achievable through community and non-statutory actions and initiatives. Puhoi Structure Plan - September ~ Bodney ~ OISTRrcT COU~Ol

22 To acknowledge ongoing provision of community services in Puhoi, the Structure Plan proposes the following options: 1. Support the initiatives and outcomes of the Puhoi Pioneers Memorial Park Management Plan for enhancement of community facilities 2 Identify further opportunities to enhance or provide new community facilities and work with residents to achieve these Natural Heritage and Ecology Community consultation identified a number of issues in relation to the natural features of Puhoi. Water quality, planting/landscaping, river-protection and riparian management were recognised as requiring both short and long-term action. Opportunities for enhancing the natural features of Puhoi are numerous, focused around the river and terrestrial habitats which make up this environmentally-sensitive catchment which has significant ecological potential. A number of other initiatives feed into the Structure Plan in terms of enhancement of natural heritage and ecology. The Puhoi Pioneers Memorial Park Management Plan contains numerous outcomes which focus on rehabilitation/enhancement of natural features within the parks boundary including: forest protection (protect native forest remnants through stock-proofing and weed/pest management) native planting (revegetate and weed/pest management to allow regeneration) freshwater wetland protection (extend boundary of this, planting and stock-exclusion) Puhoi Riverbanks (protect against erosion through stock-exclusion and revegetation with flood-tolerant species) ROC has also recently initiated the 'bush- lot monitoring' programme which focuses on covenanted land under the bush-lot subdivision scheme. This survey was underway (in May 21) however no results were available at the time of drafting the Structure Plan. The landscape analysis also identifies the importance of vegetation (both native and exotic) in certain 'character zones' of the catchment, especially the western slopes, the northern core backdrop, the northern historic core and the entrance road. Puhoi has a very active network of environmental volunteers. The Puhoi Landcare Group is active in weed-control, planting and survey work. This work is ongoing. The Structure Plan makes recommendations based on existing initiatives and data of the natural features of Puhoi. Further bush-lot subdivision opportunities may result in existing areas of bush being formally protected, or further replanting undertaken. Puhoi Structure Plan - September _. Rodney ~ OIST/I.ICT COtii\OCil

23 ', A further ecological survey of the catchment is supported. This would build on those surveys already undertaken or in the process of being undertaken. Additional ecological data would be used to inform and support measures to protect and enhance the natural features of the Puhoi Catchment. It is likely that this would result in District Plan Changes/Variations, particularly in the case of Option 1. To protect, restore and enhance the natural features of the Puhoi catchment, the Structure Plan proposes the following options : 1. Initiate an ecological survey which builds on existing data to compile a comprehensive record of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems to : - identify key areas for restoration to create ecological linkages and riparian corridors - identify key areas for formal protection - identify any particular indigenous species of flora or fauna which are of significance to the Puhoi Catchment in particular and make recommendations for their formal protection - recommend measures for avoiding adverse affects on natural systems 2 Following outcomes and recommendations of the survey, undertake further consultation with the community and promulgate a Plan Change/Variation to incorporate changes to the District Plan 3 Assist with the development of community programmes to control weed and pest species, particularly around the Puhoi River margins 4 Promote the protection and enhancement of Puhoi River, including regular water-quality monitoring 5 Support the initiatives and outcomes of the Puhoi Pioneers Memorial Park Management Plan for forest and wetland protection, replanting and weed/pest management 6 Acknowledge the Mahurangi Catchment Plan 4. Implementation The Structure Plan defines the various natural, physical, cultural and historical features of Puhoi that contribute to its nationally distinct character. It establishes a number of options to support, sustain and improve the future 'look and feel' of the Village and environs. The options support and give effect to the Vision Statement of the community. The options may be implemented in a number of ways. Some have a resource management purpose and will be implemented through changes or variations to the District Plan. Others are identified as relating to the provision of services in Annual Plans and the Long Term Council Community Plan. Others have an advocacy role and support community projects and goals. The Structure Plan is anticipated to have a place within the new Auckland Council planning structure and the objectives and options actively implemented. Puhoi Structure Plan - September "' OISTP.rcr CO!Jti.IQL

24 Implementing the Puhoi Structure Plan will include: 1 undertaking further consultation with the community, key stakeholders and interest-groups 2 preparing and notifying District Plan Changes/Variations to implement the actions of the Structure Plan 3 preparing funding plans and strategies for implementation of works and services through Annual Plan and Long Term Council Community Plan 4 establishing methods by which Council can assist and support community groups to give effect to certain aspects of the Structure Plan 5 ensuring the Structure Plan continues to be given effect to and is recognised within the future planning framework for Auckland Puhoi Structure Plan - September ~ Rodn ey ~ DISTRICT COIJNOl