Notice is hereby given that an Ordinary Meeting of Southland District Council will be held on:

Date:                       Time: Meeting Room: Venue:	Wednesday, 18 May 2016 9am Council Chambers 15 Forth Street Invercargill
Council Agenda OPEN

MEMBERSHIP

Mayor	Mayor Gary Tong
Deputy Mayor	Paul Duffy
Councillors	Lyall Bailey
	Stuart Baird
	Brian Dillon
	Rodney Dobson
	John Douglas
	Bruce Ford
	George Harpur
	Julie Keast
	Ebel Kremer
	Gavin Macpherson
	Neil Paterson

IN ATTENDANCE

Chief Executive	Steve Ruru
Committee Advisor	Fiona Dunlop

Contact Telephone: 0800 732 732

Postal Address: PO Box 903, Invercargill 9840

Email: emailsdc@southlanddc.govt.nz

Website: www.southlanddc.govt.nz

Full agendas are available on Council’s Website

www.southlanddc.govt.nz

Council 18 May 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ITEM                                                                                                                                   PAGE

Procedural

1          Apologies                                                                                                                        5

2          Leave of absence                                                                                                           5

3          Conflict of Interest                                                                                                         5

4          Public Forum                                                                                                                  5

5          Extraordinary/Urgent Items                                                                                          5

6          Confirmation of Council Minutes                                                                                5

Reports - Policy and Strategy

Nil

Reports - Operational Matters

8.1       Curio Bay Wastewater Upgrade                                                                                  7

Reports - Governance

Nil

Public Excluded

Nil

Council 18 May 2016

1          Apologies

At the close of the agenda no apologies had been received.

2          Leave of absence

At the close of the agenda no requests for leave of absence had been received.

3          Conflict of Interest

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

4          Public Forum

Notification to speak is required by 5pm at least two days before the meeting. Further information is available on www.southlanddc.govt.nz or phoning 0800 732 732.

5          Extraordinary/Urgent Items

To consider, and if thought fit, to pass a resolution to permit the Council to consider any further items which do not appear on the Agenda of this meeting and/or the meeting to be held with the public excluded.

Such resolution is required to be made pursuant to Section 46A(7) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987, and the Chairperson must advise:

(i)      The reason why the item was not on the Agenda, and

(ii)     The reason why the discussion of this item cannot be delayed until a subsequent meeting.

Section 46A(7A) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (as amended) states:

“Where an item is not on the agenda for a meeting,-

(a)     that item may be discussed at that meeting if-

(i)      that item is a minor matter relating to the general business of the local authority; and

(ii)      the presiding member explains at the beginning of the meeting, at a time when it is open to the public, that the item will be discussed at the meeting; but

(b)     no resolution, decision or recommendation may be made in respect of that item except to refer that item to a subsequent meeting of the local authority for further discussion.”

6          Confirmation of Council Minutes

There are no minutes to confirm at this meeting

Council 18 May 2016

Curio Bay Wastewater Upgrade

Record No:        R/16/4/6045

Author:                 Ian Evans, Strategic Manager Water and Waste

Approved by:       Steve Ruru, Chief Executive

☒  Decision                           ☐  Recommendation                      ☐  Information

Purpose

1 The purpose of this item is to present a brief business case/report to the Council seeking approval of the proposal to upgrade the wastewater treatment plant and disposal system for the Curio Bay campground and reserve, and recommend the overall project proceeds and that the contract will be awarded at a subsequent meeting of the Activities Performance Audit Committee. 

Executive Summary

2 As part of the 2015-2025 Long Term Plan process, Council budgeted funding for the upgrade of the wastewater treatment plant serving the Curio Bay Recreation Reserve.  Resource consent for the discharge from the treatment plant was granted in November 2014, with the land designated for that activity around the same time.

3 The upgrade forms an important part of wider plans to improve facilities in the area and to help cater for growing numbers of tourists.  This wider work is being carried out in partnership with the Department of Conservation (DoC) and the South Catlins Charitable Trust (the Trust).  Funding has been granted for a car park development and toilets as well as the construction of a heritage centre building and upgrade to campground facilities.

4        This business case/report confirms the need for the development of the proposed wastewater treatment system as the first stage of a wider reserve upgrade. It also outlines how the project will be procured. Awarding of the contracts is to be approved by the Activities Perfomance Audit Committee.

Recommendation

That the Council:

a)         Receives the report titled “Curio Bay Wastewater Upgrade” dated 5 May 2016.

b)         Determines that this matter or decision be recognised as not significant in terms of Section 76 of the Local Government Act 2002.

c)         Determines that it has complied with the decision-making provisions of the Local Government Act 2002 to the extent necessary in relation to this decision; and in accordance with Section 79 of the Act determines that it does not require further information, further assessment of options or further analysis of costs and benefits or advantages and disadvantages prior to making a decision on this matter.

d)         Approves the development of the wastewater treatment plant and associated works at Curio Bay as part of the wider upgrade of the reserve at a total cost of $875,364.

e)         Agrees that negotiations be finalised with the Department of Conservation and the South Catlins Charitable Trust for contributions to the annual operating costs of the Curio Bay wastewater treatment plant.

f)          Agrees to fund the annual operating costs of the wastewater treatment plant upgrade and associated works at Curio Bay, after contributions from third parties, by Councils General rate.

Content

Background

5        It is confirmed that 100,000 people visit Curio Bay per annum and it is thought to be more likely to be closer to 150,000.  This last season in particular has seen (anecdotally) increased traffic and numbers of visitors in the area, many travelling the Southern Scenic Route.  This presents challenges particularly when the existing provision of infrastructure, facilities and amenities does not meet current, let alone, future demand. 

6       After approximately 10 years of work to progress this project, Council was granted consent for the proposed wastewater treatment plant, capable of being developed to service the wider community, in November 2014.  Along a similar timescale the Trust was recently granted resource consent to build the Natural Heritage Centre at Curio Bay.  This facility will provide a ‘hub’ for the area and improve overall visitor management. 

7       This was a significant milestone for both projects and while the majority of feedback/submissions were positive, the overall development still created strong sentiment.  This was because the proposed area is next to the yellow-eyed penguin habitat, Curio Bay campground and 180 million year old petrified forest.  However, everyone agreed that the area was changing and people would visit whether infrastructure was in place or not.  Improved visitor management and facilities were required.

8       This project and the collaborative approach of Council, DoC and the Trust provides an opportunity for the community to guide development and is underpinned by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the three parties. 

9        This project is part of a larger vision for the area with development to the value of  approximately $5M planned for Curio Bay including:

·              New wastewater system (with funding confirmed through SDC’s Long Term Plan process).

·              New car park and public toilets (DoC).

·              Upgrade campground (the Trust).

·              New Natural Heritage Centre (the Trust).

·              Enhancing recreational opportunities with walking tracks and interpretation.

10     A significant contribution from the Community Trust of Southland has been confirmed and an application had recently been submitted to the Lottery World War One Environment and Heritage Fund.  All going well, all aspects of the $5M development will be underway by early 2016 accommodating the visitor season and avoiding penguin nesting times.

11     The overall development is an excellent example of Council, DoC and community collaboration and partnership.  The Document titled “A Vision for Curio Bay” prepared by Venture Southland and updated in 2013 constitutes the strategic business case for the overall development of facilities and amenities at Curio Bay.  The report, which is included as Attachment 1, presents the current vision for the future of the campground and reserve.

12     In order to facilitate the co-ordination and delivery of multiple projects being completed by the three parties, an overall project co-ordinator has been appointed.  It is anticipated that this cost will be covered by all three parties on a per use basis.

13     The current brief business case for the upgrade of the wastewater treatment plant facility aligns closely with the overall project planned by the three parties as outlined in previous feasibility studies in support of the Trust’s various applications for funding.  These studies have been summarised and Documented in ‘A Vision for Curio Bay 2013’.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade

14      As part of the 2015-2025 Long Term Plan process, Council budgeted funding for the upgrade of the wastewater treatment plant serving the Curio Bay Recreation Reserve.  Resource consent for the discharge from the treatment plant was granted in November 2014, with the land designated for that activity around the same time.

15      A number of previous options for treatment and disposal have been considered including land disposal some distance up Mair Road but were discounted due to high capital costs.  Options around separation of grey and black water were also looked at but presented less opportunity for a wider community scheme and did not deliver the same overall environmental benefits that the consented proposal allows. 

16     In summary, the proposal involves the construction of a package membrane bioreactor treatment plant which would discharge through a rock contact bed to a local drainage ditch.  Further modifications to drainage within the area would allow the ditch downstream of the discharge to revert back to more of a wetland over time.  The treatment plant is capable of producing a very high quality discharge and is a very similar type of plant to that which DoC installed to service its campground at Papatowai further into the Catlins.  There will also be construction of new pipework both within the campsite and in the road to the new treatment plant.

17     The treatment plant and pipework has been designed with future extension to the
Porpoise Bay subdivision and the wider community in mind.  This will be subject to further consultation with both the developer and wider community and consideration of a number of funding issues.

18      The development of the wastewater treatment plant is seen as pivotal to the work in the area.  If it does not go ahead it will severely restrict what other work can proceed.  As a consequence maintaining the status quo is not an option.

19      It is proposed to stage the upgrade as follows:

·              Stage 1 - to service the reserve and campground (the current project does not extend beyond this stage).

·              Stage 2 - Porpoise Bay subdivision (subject to agreement with the developer).

·              Stage 3 - community (subject to consultation).

Project Procurement

20      As previously outlined it is proposed to split the work into two packages as it is believed this will deliver the best outcomes for the project.  Following resolutions made at the APAC meeting on 28 October 2015 Water and Waste staff continued to develop the proposed procurement package as follows:

Package One

21      It is proposed to enter into a design build and operate contract for supply of a package membrane bioreactor wastewater treatment plant.  This is similar to the model that DoC implemented for its campsite at Papatowai in the Catlins.  Subject to approval from APAC to award the contract a final contract price of $477,600 capital and three years operational costs of $43,355 has been negotiated.  Although the capital cost is slightly higher than the indicative cost provided last year, it is largely due to some design changes requested by Council staff and Opus to help ensure the plant manages to remain compliant at times when large upturn and downturn in loadings would be experienced.  The current contract allows for a three year operating contract once commissioned.

22     An independent assessment of the contract price was also sought from MWH (attached) which concludes that the proposal has been robustly costed and is consistent with what a plant of this design might cost and that we would be unlikely to get a more favourable outcome by going through an open tender process.

Package Two

23     Drainage modifications, pipelines and connections to new developments on the reserve, those being the approved Heritage Centre and a new campsite ablution block as well as connecting the existing toilets was tendered as a package.  The tender was advertised in January 2016 with two compliant tenders received.  Following clarifications and based on tenders received it is proposed to award this package for a tendered price of $137,764 (subject to APAC approval). 

24     Further earthworks, access and fencing costs have been omitted from these two contracts and will be undertaken by local contractors as required.  An allowance has been made in the overall budget for this work and is based on an Opus assessment of previous similar work.

Benefits of Proposed Approach

25      There are a number of benefits to using this type of approach for the delivery of package one.

26     The Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) type of approach is becoming more common within the construction industry and helps to optimise price, control, risk management and allocation for the Principal.  Council successfully used this model to deliver upgrades to four water treatment plants in 2014 on time and within budget.

27     This is a highly technical plant with limited suppliers capable of delivering a design build operate contract of this nature.  This model is particularly suited to deliver this package.

28     The key difference between traditional tendered contracts and ECI is the involvement of the contractor at a much earlier stage and in the process having complete buy-in at the detailed design stage.  The rationale behind this is that during this early stage of project planning, the greatest influence on capital costs and project outcomes is possible.  It is essentially a form of collaborative contracting and like Alliance Contracts envisages the early involvement of the contractor and the adoption of ‘best for project’ attitudes by all parties. 

29     Through an open book (negotiated/guaranteed maximum price) arrangement, Council will have full visibility of all costs, overheads and margins, therefore ensuring that the budget available is used to maximum effect. 

Factors to Consider

Legal and Statutory Requirements

30     The Local Government Act contains sections that have to be considered in proposing a method for managing a project such as the current proposal.  Section 10 sets out general requirements:

10         Purpose of local government

(1)        The purpose of local government is—

(a )       to enable democratic local decision-making and action by, and on behalf of, communities; and

(b)        to meet the current and future needs of communities for good-quality local infrastructure, local public services, and performance of regulatory functions in a way that is most cost-effective for households and businesses.

(2)        In this Act, good-quality, in relation to local infrastructure, local public services, and performance of regulatory functions, means infrastructure, services, and performance that are—

(a )       efficient; and

(b )       effective; and

(c)        appropriate to present and anticipated future circumstances.

31     For a decision that is inconsistent with an adopted policy, Council is required under Section 80 of the Act to record the fact that the decision is inconsistent, the reason as to why Council is making the decision and whether it intends reviewing its policy as a result of making the decision. 

Community Views

32      There has been a significant amount of community consultation on all elements of the proposed wider development over the past decade.  Recent Long Term Plan consultation and submissions to the applications for both the wastewater treatment upgrade and the Heritage Centre have been largely very positive and supportive of the proposal.  In addition, a number of public meetings and presentations have been well attended and again largely supportive.  Although any move to connect in the wider community would require further formal consultation, informal feedback has also been positive.

Costs and Funding

33      Through the 2015-2025 Long Term Plan, Council included the funding of the wastewater treatment upgrade which was considered essential for other proposed developments to proceed.  In essence this is the first step of a wider vision of services provided within Curio Bay.  Current indications from both DoC and the Trust are that both parties are committed to their various projects and agree that the provision of the wastewater treatment plant is the first critical project that is required.

34      The budget for the upgrade sits within the Parks and Reserves activity of Council as this is essentially an upgrade to facilities at the reserve.  The facility will transfer across to a community wastewater scheme if and when agreement is reached to connect in the Porpoise Bay subdivision and the wider community.  A policy is currently being developed to ensure that future costs associated with any community connection is equitable to all required to be connected.  Once connected all properties will then be subject to the district-funded wastewater rate, with the reserve activity reverting to a per pan basis.

35      The updated estimated cost as per the table in paragraph 39 is $875K, which is lower than previously expected and largely due to the favourable contract price received for the reticulation works, and is less than the estimated budget of $970K as per the
2015-2025 Long Term Plan. 

36      No specific allowance was made in the Long Term Plan for any maintenance and electricity costs, however these have now been included as part of the Draft Annual Plan for 2016/2017.  Preliminary discussions have taken place with DoC and the Trust for contributions to these costs for future years.  Any contribution is contingent on it remaining as an upgrade serving the reserve rather than the wider community.  If the scheme is opened to the wider community then the contribution will be via the District rate to the reserve on a per pan basis. 

37      The total cost of the project is estimated below

Summary of Capital Costs

Capital Cost	Value
Contract 16/2  (Membrane Plant)	$477,600
Contract 16/3 (Drainage, pipelines etc)	$137,764
Earthworks / access/ landscaping	$45,000
PowerNet	$35,000
Opus Project Management	$60,000
SDC staff time	$40,000
Contingency @ 10%	$80,000
	$875,364

38      Funding for this project will be based on the funding sources identified in the 2015-25 Long Term Plan.  This will result in $115K coming from the District Operations Reserve, $100K from the Financial & Reserve Contribution fund (already allocated) and the balance $660K to be funded by a 25 year internal loan.

Estimated Operational Costs

39      Some annual costs were included in the 2015-2025 Long Term Plan.  These costs include estimated depreciation (including funding of deprecation in line with the policy adopted in the Long Term Plan) and interest and principal loan repayments.

40      Operational costs that were not included in the Long Term Plan are the costs of maintenance/running of the plant ($45K per annum), electricity ($5K - $8K per annum) and maintenance on the pipe reticulation of $5K per annum.  The first two costs will be incurred as soon as the plant is commissioned (2016/2017) and the maintenance on pipe reticulation is likely to be needed after three years (2019/2020).

41      Operational costs for the maintenance/running of the plant have been updated as part of the draft Annual Plan for 2016/2017.  The draft Annual Plan includes $45K for operations/maintenance of the plant and $5K for electricity.  These costs are the expected costs for a full financial year.  As the plant will be commissioned part way through the year the costs incurred during 2016/2017 will be lower.

42      Loan repayments have been removed from the draft Annual Plan for 2016/2017 as no loan repayments will be required during the 2016/2017 financial year.  Internal loans are drawn down at the end of the financial year that the capital work is completed, with repayments required in the following financial year.  The capital work expected to be completed in 2015/2016 will be funded from contributions and reserves, with no loan required until the majority of the capital work is completed during 2016/2017.

43      As the capital asset is not complete at 30 June 2016 and cannot be depreciated under accounting standards, funded depreciation has also been removed from the draft Annual Plan.  An asset is not depreciated until it has been completed and available for use, this will be part way through the year.  If the asset had been completed during 2015/2016 the depreciation to be funded would have been $7,254.  It is anticipated that the any depreciation to be funded in line with the current policy will be able to be funded from the expected underspend in operational costs for the year.

44      Council staff would look to recover some of the operational costs from the Trust and DOC.  Discussions have yet to be held with the Trust and DOC.  Council staff would look to recover $15K per annum with the balance being funded from the General rate.  No income from the Trust and DOC has been included in the draft Annual Plan.

45      The estimated costs for 2019/20 relating to interest and principal are based on the capital cost detailed above of $875K.

Annual Costs	Long Term Plan 2016/2017	Draft Annual Plan 2016/2017	Estimate for 2019/2020
Included in relevant plan
Interest	$46,887	-	$38,662
Principal	$13,008	-	$13,697
Funded Depreciation	$7,254	-	$15,026
Operation/Maintenance Contract	-	$45,000	$43,335
Electricity	-	$5,000	$8,000
Reticulation Maintenance*	-	-	$5,000
Total in Rates	$67,149	$50,000	$123,720
Excluded from the Long Term Plan (additional rates)
Operation/Maintenance Contract	$43,335	-	-
Electricity	$8,000	-	-
Total costs not in Long Term Plan	$51,335	-	-
Total Annual Costs	$118,484	$50,000	$123,720
Less potential cost recovery	($15,000)	-	($15,000)
Total Estimated Rate Cost (before inflation)	$103,484	$50,000	$108,720

* The reticulation is the pipework owned by the Council.  It is expected that all other parties connecting to the wastewater system will pay the cost for their own connection and any
ongoing maintenance.

46     The amount of depreciation to be funded will adjust each year until it is fully funded in 2024/2025.  This is in line with the policy adopted during the 2015-2025 Long Term Plan.  This policy allows for an additional 10% depreciation to be funded each year until 2025 when 100% of depreciation is funded.  The estimate for 2019/20 allows for depreciation funding after principal repayments of 50%.

Cost Sharing

47     Previous discussions around funding the operational costs of the scheme suggested a cost sharing approach between the Council, the Trust and DoC being the three parties connected to the plant.  This approach would be revised at some point in the future if the scheme were to be extended to the Porpoise Bay subdivision and to the wider community, in which case it would fall under the district sewerage rating.

48     The discussions were based on the principle that each of the parties should contribute to the operating cost of the sewerage scheme and contribute to the cost of capital for the scheme.  The Trust and DoC both had the same response in terms of the principle of contributing to capital costs, that being that they did not see the added burden of capital costs as being part of their business case.  Generally it was considered that the Southland District Council’s capital contribution is the Council’s share as a partner in a three way joint project to deliver higher class facilities for the large and growing number of visitors coming to the site.

49     The Trust and DoC accepted the principle that contributions should be made to the operating cost of the scheme but agreement on the quantum of that contribution has not yet been reached.  DoC in particular explained their policy was that the level of contribution should be close to the equivalent cost of them having to maintain and operate a set of standalone toilets.  The basis for this logic is that is what they would be up for if the SDC did not construct a sewerage scheme.

50     Similar logic exists for the Trust as they would have to operate a separate scheme if the SDC plant was not constructed.  This is where working together for the benefit of the community is best demonstrated.  Each organisation is contributing in the order of $1 million dollars to make this collective project viable.

51     Discussion with these two organisations needs to continue so as to achieve agreement about the level of contribution towards operating costs in time for the 2017/18 budget when the scheme will be in full operation.  Until then the operating costs will be a prorated amount of the annual estimated operating cost dependant on when start-up of the plant occurs and the scheme is handed over from the contractor.

Risk Analysis

52     A high level analysis of the key risks associated with undertaking the project has been undertaken and are presented in the following table.  A risk register will be developed as the project progresses with key risks re-assessed at significant milestones or if there are significant changes to scope.

Risk	Probability	Consequence	Mitigation
DOC/Trust do not proceed with proposed upgrades	Low	High	This is unlikely as both parties have secured the majority of the funding for their respective upgrades.
Parties cannot commit to ongoing contribution to annual opex costs	Moderate	Low	Ongoing dialogue between parties and through the Governance Group.
Costs of installing a wider community scheme are not equitably spread	Low	High	Early development of funding policy to ensure costs to all parties required to connect are fair and equitable.
Failure to deliver project to budget	Low	Moderate	Use of Quantity Surveyor to ensure contract delivers value/ robust tender processes
Porpoise Bay Ltd opt to install their own wastewater treatment system	Low	Moderate	Ongoing dialogue with Porpoise Bay Ltd and ensuring they are aware of the implications of the final funding policy.  Minimal risk to design if this occurs as will require limited design alterations. Opex costs would not be able to be spread.
Community choose not to connect in following consultation	Moderate	Low	Current design is to service Reserve and potentially Porpoise Bay at this stage.  Further consultation with the community will be undertaken to ensure complete transparency.
Failure of existing onsite wastewater systems within the community	Moderate	High	Consultation on joining sewerage scheme as an alternative to potentially expensive upgrade of onsite systems.
Impact of Environment Southland Water and Land Plan	High	Moderate	Council will submit once plan is notified for submissions.
Increasing visitor numbers increase pressure on inadequate infrastructure	High	High	Proceed with proposal for wastewater treatment upgrade for the reserve.
Risk of visitors to campground dropping off as a result of inadequate facilities (or through negative reviews on travel websites)	Moderate	Moderate	All parties proceed with upgrade proposals to improve visitor experience.

Policy Implications

53      Council is committed to ensuring it obtains value for money in procuring goods and services.  Section 7.2 of Council’s Procurement Policy requires that procurement policies over $20K will generally be made on the basis of a competitive tender.  Obviously, the current proposal is not in line with this part of the policy.

54     However, Section 7.3 of the policy does allow for Council to consider opportunities to procure goods and services through alternative arrangements such as negotiations with a single supplier where it can be demonstrated that this could provide a better outcome. 

55     In essence, the policy does make allowance for such an approach provided it can be demonstrated that this will deliver the best outcome.

56     The challenge is to demonstrate how this procurement approach will deliver the best value for money outcome for the Council.  A key to demonstrating value for money is to be able to demonstrate what a competitive price for the work is, hence the reason for the independent review of the proposal to negotiate with one party.  In a simple open tendering process this is demonstrated by competing tenders.  It is not possible to have competing tenders when a sole supplier situation exists as it does with this project.

57     The way to demonstrate value for money is to have independent market experts calculate the likely competitive market price for the work.  These experts, known as quantity surveyors provided a similar audit on costings and risk on a previous directly negotiated contract.

Analysis

Options Considered

58     Based on previous approvals and competitive prices received for both tenders, the only options now to consider are either to approve or not approve the business case for the overall project to approve.  Decisions around awarding contracts will be made at a subsequent APAC meeting.

Analysis of Options

Option 1 – Give approval for the project to proceed

Advantages	Disadvantages
·        Allows both the wastewater scheme as well as the wider development to proceed.  By proceeding at this stage it is likely that the plant will be substantially complete by next holiday season.  ·        Consistent with delivering what is allowed for in the 2015/2025 Long Term Plan. ·        Opportunities for future expansion and development.	·      None.

Option 2 - Do not give approval for the project to proceed.

Advantages	Disadvantages
·      None	·      Significant potential to negatively impact on the wider development and consequent risk of external funding losses from external agencies.

Assessment of Significance

59     In this report the Council is being asked to give approval to proceeding with the construction of the proposed wastewater scheme at Curio Bay campground and reserve and the subsequent arrangements for procuring the project. 

60     The project is provided for in the 2015 Long Term Plan and has been the subject of ongoing discussion with the different agencies involved for some time. Officers are of the view that it is reasonable to conclude that the decision is not significant in accordance with the Significance and Engagement Policy.

Recommended Option

61      It is recommended that Council approve the business case for the wastewater treatment plant upgrade.  Recommendations on contract award will be made at the APAC meeting.

Next Steps

62      Council staff present a report to APAC recommending that contracts are awarded for the upgrade of the wastewater treatment plant, and hence enter into the detailed design phase of the project.

Attachments

a         FINAL - A Vision for Curio Bay 2013 Update View

b         Notice To Client 11a Curio Bay MBR comments 160209 View

Council

18 May 2016

Contents

Executive Summary	3
Section 1:  About the Area 1.1  The Catlins 1.2  Curio Bay/Tumu Toka	5
Section 2:  Issues and Challenges for Curio Bay 2.1  Visitor flows and numbers 2.2  Improvements in roading and telecommunications 2.3  Significance and sensitivity of area 2.4  Challenges of location and area 2.5  Inadequate infrastructure 2.6  Collaborative approach 2.7  Realising the economic benefit	8
Section 3: Collaboration and a Shared Vision 3.1  Three key stakeholders 3.2  Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2012 3.3  Governance group established 3.4  The Shared Vision 3.5  Achieving the Vision	11
Section 4: Curio Bay Living Forest and Walkway 4.1 Significance of Smiths Bush 4.2 Benefits of purchasing Smiths Bush 4.3 The Trust’s Approach 4.4 The Curio Bay Living Forest and Walkway Project 4.5 Cost of the Project 4.6 Funding of the Project 4.7  Progress to Date	15
Section 5: Waste Water Infrastructure 5.1 Other Options Investigated 5.2 A Solution is Identified 5.3 Funding the Solution 5.4 Progress Continues	20
Section 6:  Curio Bay Recreation Reserve 6.1 Cost of the Project 6.2 Funding for implementation 6.3 Collaborative Approach means sharing of infrastructure and associated costs 6.4 Waste water infrastructure	23
Section 7:  The Natural Heritage Centre 7.1  Background 7.2 Description 7.3 Economic Benefits 7.4 Progress 7.5 Cost of the Project	26
Section 8:  Curio Bay Camp Ground 8.1  The Current Situation 8.2 The Proposed Upgrade 8.3 Cost of the Upgrade 8.4 Cultural and Community Considerations 8.5 Waste Water Infrastructure 8.6 Progress Forward	31
Section 9: Porpoise Bay Beach 9.1  Beach Access 9.2  Sand Dunes 9.3  Interpretation Opportunities 9.4  Beach Safety	35
Section 10: Infrastructure Site Development 10.1  Reasoning behind the “Central Arrival Area” 10.2  Access into the Area 10.3  The Car Park 10.4  Toilets 10.5  Enhancement of the current water supply 10.6  Interpretation and Tracking	39
Summary	44
Appendices Appendix A:  Information about the Trust Appendix B:  Memorandum of Understanding Appendix C:  The Vision for Curio Bay Appendix D:  Mike Pole Supporting Information Appendix E:  Building Plan for Ablution Block Appendix F:  Building Plan for Natural Heritage Centre Appendix G:  Waikawa Harbour Mataitai Reserve Appendix H:  Possible Plans for the Car Park	45

Executive Summary

Curio Bay and Porpoise Bay are unique localities of international significance primarily because of the 170 million year old Petrified Forest platform.  Visitors (confirmed at 100,000 but thought to be more likely 150,000) continue to visit the area in increasing numbers, travelling along the internationally acclaimed Southern Scenic Route into The Catlins. 

The area is very important to local iwi and the local community for its recreational, cultural and historical value.  It is truly difficult to find a comparable site elsewhere which has such a sensitive and unique natural environment - Curio Bay is home to rare and endangered yellow eyed penguins and New Zealand sea lions as well as Hectors Dolphins.  It is also thought to be the only site in the world where a living replica of a petrified forest can be found adjacent to its 170 million year old predecessor. 

The community are currently developing the Curio Bay Walkway and Interpretation through this living replica of forest. It is classified as a “Gateway” destination by the Department of Conservation (DOC).

The Issues

·    An extremely sensitive, natural environment of international significance…

·    Significant growing numbers of visitors…

·    Out-dated and inadequate infrastructure to meet demand and address needs.

Implications

Out-dated and inadequate infrastructure includes lack of toilets and parking and a failing septic tank system which currently services the camp ground and recreation reserve.  Incredibly there are no toilets for the 100,000 visitors to the Petrified Forest platform and a car park which parks about 15 vehicles.  This is impacting the community, environment and visitor experience with:

·    Failures in the septic tank creating health issues for locals and visitors as well as the obvious impacts upon the environment and wildlife.

·    Lack of parking for all types of vehicles creating unsafe vehicle movements and parking on the side of the road.

·    Overall opportunities from tourism not being realised by local businesses and the community.

The Solution

There is a commitment from key stakeholders to look after the area as reflected with a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (Appendix B).  This commitment is illustrated on the map in Appendix C which shows the number of initiatives and projects planned for the area which all contribute to a shared collaborative vision. 

Each stakeholder is able to contribute financially towards various projects totalling approximately $4.8 million.  To date, over half of the required funding has been sourced, reflecting the support and “buy in” from community funders and stakeholders.

It is widely agreed that this unique example of a collaborative approach is the only possible way of successfully looking after this very special area.

The Priority

The priority is to address the area’s waste water needs first and foremost.  This is essential and underpins all projects including an upgrade of the camp ground and recreation reserve.  An affordable waste water solution has been identified and is estimated to cost about $550,000.  To date funding of $300,000 has been secured, leaving a deficit of $250,000.

Section 1: About the Area

1.1    The Catlins

When Europeans arrived in the area, they found it easier to cut-off this south east corner of the South Island (for favourable inland routes) and it almost become a forgotten region.  Described as remote and more ‘West Coast’ than the West Coast itself, it was rarely visited. 

Sealing and whaling were the first industries, followed by the milling of native timber and subsistence farms.  The area is exposed to the southern storms that roar up from the Antarctic and it was generally a difficult place to live – horizontal trees near the coast are a common sight.

Today, the secret is out and the Catlins is developing into an increasingly popular emerging tourist destination.  Roading has improved access and the internationally renowned ‘Southern Scenic Route’ traverses through the region which spans both the Clutha District and Southland District Council territories (referred to as North and South Catlins areas respectively).

Low profile eco tourism is establishing itself in the area with the emergence of a range of accommodation including B & Bs, homestays, backpackers and motels as well as a number small tourist and wildlife businesses.  For further information please see www.catlins.org.nz

Today, pastoral farming continues to be the predominant industry with most of the population either engaged or in related service industries. 

The number of permanent residents is relatively low compared to the summer                                              months when increasingly growing numbers of domestic and international visitors descend into the area.

1.2  Curio Bay / Tumu Toka

·   Curio Bay is located on the South Catlins coast in the Southland District.

·   Porpoise Bay is often considered alongside Curio Bay because of its close proximity.

·   There are a small number of permanent resident homes but the population dramatically increases in the summer.

·   There are residential subdivisions currently planned that will add approximately 22 sections, plus accommodation and a restaurant.

·   The area has a long history of Maori occupation and, as with the rest of the Catlins, was an important food source area for Maori. The area was later settled by European whalers and sealers in the 1850s and 1860s.

·   In recent years, Curio Bay has become a popular holiday and day trip destination, particularly for New Zealanders. The camping ground is located on the headland and has been used by locals and families for many years for an authentic, kiwi camping experience.

·   Curio Bay has developed as one of the key visitor destinations in Southland. Further to this, the area is a destination on the now popular Southern Scenic Route. Increased visitor numbers are putting pressure both on infrastructure and the environment (University of Otago, 2004).

·   Currently 150,000 people are visiting the area with the Petrified Forest attracting 86% of all visitors (DOC, 2007) and confirmed numbers of 100,000.

·   Tourist visitation to the area is already at a level that cannot be sustained with the current management and infrastructure.

·   However, a number of new businesses have developed as a result of increases in tourism and the efforts of the South Catlins Development and Environmental Charitable Trust (The Trust). 

The Curio Bay area is home to geological and environmental attractions of international significance such as:

An INTERNATIONAL TREASURE, a 170 million year old Fossil Forest recognised as one of the best examples of Jurassic Fossil Forest in the world. The platform of petrified stumps, fallen trees and fern imprints are easily accessible by foot at low tide, or can be viewed from the platform above.
Smith’s Bush Block - is one of the few examples of Coastal Lowland Forest, such is significant as an example of a successor of the Petrified Forest. It is especially rare because of its proximity to the petrified forest.
A nesting site for NZ’s unique and rare yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho.
Regular visitation by rare and endangered Hectors Dolphins, one of the smallest and rarest marine dolphins in the world.
Diverse coastal landscape of Curio and Porpoise Bays.
Resting site to other marine mammals including New ZEALAND fur seals, sea lions and is home to blue penguins.
Curio Bay Camping Ground (situated on the Curio Bay Recreation Reserve) which has camp sites nestled subtly into flaxes, overlooking Porpoise Bay and the Petrified Forest.

Section 2: Issues and Challenges

2.1  Visitor flows and numbers

Visitors continue to visit the area with numbers estimated ten years ago eventuating. At present DOC confirms (with accurate foot counting) that there are 100,000 visitors to the Petrified Forest platform but this number will not necessarily include locals, day visitors to the beach and some campers.  It is estimated that the actual number of visitors is more likely 150,000. 

Vehicle road counts also support significant numbers of traffic in the peak visitor season which runs from October to April. 

Curio Bay is situated on the Southern Scenic Route in The Catlins, an emerging tourist destination of international significance.  Even without actively encouraging people to visit, visitors will still come.  It does not appear to be a choice to ‘not do anything’ because it will be at the detriment of the community and environment. Rather the approach is to proactively plan and manage the development of tourism in the area which will ensure the environment is protected and the local community benefits where possible. 

The challenge is to manage visitors and vehicles in small, sensitive environment which currently lacks adequate infrastructure.

2.2  Improvements in roading and telecommunications

In the past ten years there has been significant upgrades of the roading network and telecommunications which has not only improved people’s ability to communicate, but also to access and travel through the area.

The sealing of the main road into and through the area has meant that all types of rental vehicles can easily access this area which is somewhat remote.  There are still a number of unsealed roads in the area but there are ongoing efforts to keep improving these to ensure optimum safety for locals and visitors.

The Rural Broadband Initiative (providing broadband internet to schools) and the Vodafone Cell Site Scheme (aiming to provide cellular coverage to remote areas which currently have none) will have a significant impact on both local’s and visitor’s ability to communicate, run businesses, book travel en route etc.  With upgrades due to be completed in 2013, it is unsure what the full impact of this will mean for the area.  It is however thought that it will make the area more accessible and attractive to both visitors and local businesses trying to operate.

2.3  Significance and sensitivity of area

The area is very important to local iwi and the local community for its recreational, cultural and historical value.  It is truly difficult to find a comparable site elsewhere which has such a sensitive and unique natural environment - Curio Bay is home to rare and endangered yellow eyed penguins and New Zealand sea lions as well as Hectors Dolphins.  It is also thought to be the only site in the world where a living replica of a petrified forest can be found adjacent to its 170 million year old predecessor.  The community are currently developing the Curio Bay Walkway and interpretation through this living replica of forest.

Ideally, the best way to protect and preserve such a sensitive site is to limit access and ensure that the priority is to preserve the habitat and local environment. However, the community and DOC believe that there is a unique opportunity to share with the public, the unique experience which Curio Bay can offer.  Education can provide preservation.  This can only be achieved with the collaborative approach as outlined in this document (Section 3).

2.4  Challenges of location and area

Curio Bay is situated in The Catlins at the southern end of the syncline.  It has been seen as ‘remote’ for a number of reasons including its geographic separation from the rest of Southland, lack of cell phone coverage and ability to communicate and gravel road network.  Recent improvements in sealing roads and telecommunications are assisting.

The total number of households in Curio Bay is about 28 which presents challenges to fund local infrastructure with rates.  The availability of central government subsidies appears to not be as reliable as it has in the past.

2.5 Inadequate infrastructure

Inadequate and out dated infrastructure presents a number of health and safety concerns.

The Petrified Forest platform area does not have any public toilets and the only option for the 100,000 visitors, is to use the toilets in the adjacent camping ground (situated on a recreation reserve and adjacent to yellow eyed penguin nesting habitat).  Built at least 40 years ago, these toilets are very basic and struggle to meet the needs and expectations of users.  As well as servicing these visitors, they also service campers and day visitors to the popular beach at Porpoise Bay.  

No one disputes that the quantity and quality of toilets need addressed at Curio Bay and the urgency of this.

Directly linked to the provision of toilets are the failures the current septic tank system is experiencing.  These are extremely concerning and have not only compromised the health of local residents and visitors but also threaten the very sensitive local environment. 

The final concern is related to the area’s inability to manage the quantity of vehicles in peak season.  The Petrified Forest currently has a 15 vehicle car park which unsurprisingly struggles to cope with 100,000 confirmed visitors to the Petrified Forest.  This has meant that cars, campervans and buses have just had to park where they can, creating an unsafe environment.

Overall there is a need to not only provide more infrastructure but also better manage people and vehicles to the area.

2.6  Collaborative approach

Because of the unique situation of Curio Bay and challenges faced, it has been difficult in recent times to identify and work together on a collaborative approach and vision forward.  Individual stakeholders have been undertaking projects e.g. redevelopment of the Petrified Forest viewing platform and interpretation, but there has not been an overall shared approach. 

It has taken a significant level of cooperation and compromise to reach the milestone of the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in 2012.  This collaborative approach recognises that each party is actually working towards similar goals and there are opportunities to achieve these for mutual benefit with a shared approach and plan.

2.7  Realising the economic benefit

A key goal is for local businesses to capitalise on the numbers of visitors to the area by creating employment and new enterprise development while ensuring the sustainable management of the area.

This can be achieved by developing more tourist product, encouraging visitors to stay longer and improved visitor management at Curio Bay. 

The local community and operators appear to understand the value of tourism and benefits and have had a significant role in developing plans and working with local government to control its development and growth as much as possible.

Section 3: Collaboration and a Shared Vision

3.1  Three key stakeholders

Alongside a passionate local community, there are three key stakeholders who are fully committed to looking after the area:

·    Southland District Council (SDC)

·    South Catlins Development and Environmental Charitable Trust (The Trust) – See Appendix A.

·    Department of Conservation (DOC)

Each stakeholder has a role as an owner or manager of land in the area. For example, DOC look after the scientific reserve which the Petrified Forest is situated on and the Trust lease the SDC Recreation Reserve which the camping ground is situated on as well as own  ‘Smiths Bush’ which is where the Curio Bay Walkway is currently being developed. 

There are also 28 residential households and a number of commercial accommodation providers situated at Curio Bay.

3.2  Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2012

In 2012, the three key stakeholders signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which outlined a shared vision forward, in terms of providing the necessary infrastructure, services and facilities to meet the needs of the visitors, locals and the environment (Appendix B).

The MOU was signed by Her Worship Frana Cardno (Mayor of the SDC), Barry Hanson (Conservator DOC) and Pam Callahan (Chair of the Trust).

What is apparent and reflected in the MOU is that each party has similar goals in respect to the area and by working collaboratively, there are benefits including the ability to ‘share infrastructure’ and associated development and ongoing costs.

What is also acknowledged is that this collaborative approach is the only possible way of successfully looking after this very special area.  Despite each individual’s best efforts and intent, there has been limited progress and success to date.

The MOU outlines a number of individual projects and initiatives which have been and will continue to be undertaken by individual stakeholders. What it does though is show how they all contribute towards the overall shared vision and overlap with each other, providing benefits of sharing infrastructure and ensuring the most efficient use of land etc.

3.3  Governance group established

Following the signing of the MOU, a governance structure was established. It was the role of this group to provide an overall strategic view of the area guided by the MOU.  The three stakeholders were represented and meetings are held as required. It is also important that local iwi are involved and an invitation has been extended for them to be a part of the governance structure.

The top level of the governance structure has a representative from each stakeholder plus iwi.  Reporting to this group is the project management team which consists of the people physically undertaking various projects.

This structure provides ongoing communication and collaboration and ensures seamless integration of operational issues with governance.  This is essential but it is acknowledged that once implementation of the various projects has occurred, a different structure may be appropriate to monitor the area.

Figure 2:  Proposed Governance Structure for Curio Bay

3.4  The Shared Vision

The map in Appendix C shows the shared vision as outlined in the MOU.  This vision consists of developing a “Central Arrival Area” which is where the majority of visitors to the area would be directed to. 

From this area, visitors would be directed to other parts of Curio Bay including the Petrified Forest, Curio Bay Walkway, the camp ground, Porpoise Bay beach and the Curio Bay headland.  A network of walking tracks would be developed to access these places (suitable for wheelchairs and prams) but vehicle access would still remain for locals in particular.

The majority of infrastructure would be located near or in the “Central Arrival Area” including car parking, toilets, visitor information, camp ground office and the proposed heritage centre and café facility.  Directly opposite this area is where the proposed waste water infrastructure is planned and a short walk allows access to the Petrified Forest and Curio Bay Walkway.

There would need to be adjustments made to the current roading layout, especially at the current “T” intersection to ensure optimum safety and access to the “Central Arrival Area” (see 10.2).

The shared vision addresses the key issue of improving the management of visitors and vehicles arriving in the area.  By providing all infrastructure in one place it allows it to be shared while ensuring the most efficient and appropriate use of land.  By encouraging walking, this lowers the amount of vehicle movements in the area, particularly with international visitors, but locals still retain the same access and freedom of movement as before.  Concentrating the infrastructure and amenities in one place also protects other more sensitive cultural and environmental places in the area.

Figure 3: Appendix C

3.5  Achieving the Vision

The vision as outlined in 3.4 can be split into three key projects when considering its implementation.

·    Curio Bay Living Forest and Walkway

·    Curio Bay Recreation Reserve

·    Waste Water Infrastructure

With each stakeholder able to access funding for certain parts of the overall vision, the challenge has been to integrate it all successfully which is what the MOU has attempted to achieve.  Please find below a summary of the planned vision for Curio Bay and various funding sources confirmed to date.

Curio Bay 2010 & Beyond – Projects	Estimated Total Project Cost	Funding Secured To Date	Deficit To Be Funded
Curio Bay Living Forest & Walkway Includes purchase of land; construction of track and interpretation.	$280,000	$53,700	$226,300
Curio Bay Recreation Reserve Includes Heritage Centre Facility, Camp Ground Upgrade, Drinking Water Upgrade, New Car Park, New Roading Layout, Landscaping, Interpretation & Walking tracks	$3,904,000	$2,268,000	$1,636,000
Waste Water	$600,000	$323,000	$277,000
	$4,784,000	$2,644,700	$2,139,300

Sections 4 through 10 explore in more depth the various components of the overall vision. 

To date, over half of the total required funding has been secured which reflects the buy in and support of various community funders and stakeholders.  The immediate issue is to confirm funding of the waste water infrastructure in order to finalise plans of other components.

Section 4: Curio Bay Living Forest and Walkway

In August 2009, the Trust, with the support of The Community Trust of Southland, purchased the remnant forest block, adjacent to Waikawa-Curio Bay Road called ‘Smiths Bush’. The bush on this block is representative of the species that were fossilized 170 million years ago and is open to view on the rock shelf in the adjacent Scientific Reserve.  The reasons for purchasing this block were to:

·    Protect it against development in the future

·    Undertake a planting and pest control programme to restore the bush to its original state

·    Highlight the significance of the site (only place in the world where a representative present day forest exists in such close proximity to an exposed Petrified Forest platform)

·    Develop a walkway which provides both educational and recreational value for both locals and visitors

Figure 4: Red line defines the area known as 'Smiths Bush'

4.1  Significance of Smiths Bush

The significance of Smith’s bush in relation to the Petrified Forest had been identified by Geologist Mike Pole (Appendix D) and Brian Rance (Technical Support Officer – Biodiversity, Southland Conservancy, DOC).

4.2  Benefits of Purchasing Smiths Bush

·    Protection of the site long term.

·    The open paddock area at its southern end is recognised as a suitable location for a wastewater treatment plant.

·    It enables possible expansion of yellow eyed penguins nesting habitat.

·    Because of its location, it acts as a buffer area for the sensitive wildlife and reserve areas from other development occurring in the area.

·    It adds another product to the whole ‘Curio Bay’ destination and appeal, once walking tracks and associated interpretation is developed

·    It celebrates the site which is of utmost importance to the local community

·    It enables the prospect of realigning Mair Road in the future to improve road safety on the access road.

4.3  The Trust’s Approach

Once purchased, the first step was to erect predator proof fences to allow undergrowth to be revitalised. 

The second step was to work alongside DOC and the local community to develop a plan for the proposed walkway through the bush – it would highlight and interpret key sites and vegetation.  It was also decided to split the development of the track into two parts which would be developed separately to each other.  This was seen to make the project more manageable considering volunteer labour and time as well as funding. 

The third step was to establish how to repay the Community Trust of Southland loan as well as the development costs of the track.

4.4  The Curio Bay Living Forest and Walkway Project

The Trust launched the Curio Bay Living Forest and Walkway project in 2009.  People could support the project with a donation and in return they were acknowledged by having their name engraved on one of the interpretation panels to be situated along the walkway.  The contributions would be used to erect a stock proof fence, restore native species and develop the walkway.

To date, the Trust have made excellent progress with creating awareness of the initiative.  This could not be achieved without the significant support of the local community.  The walkway is now gaining national recognition with a recent visit by the Little Brown Kiwi (New Zealand Adventure Education company), who completed a day’s Environmental Science work in the area.  They are currently working on making this an annual feature in their adventure education programme.

4.5  Cost of the Project

The total cost to undertake the project was estimated to cost $279,405.  This included $129,405 of estimated expenses related to development of the walkway (track construction; plantings; interpretation boards). 

Task	Note	Estimated Cost
Purchase Price of Smiths Bush	$30,000 already secured Nature Heritage Fund	$150,000
Development of 1km Track	1km gravel track, wooden border, gravel + weed cloth + four bridges – community to provide labour ($77 per metre as per DOC figures)	$77,000
Culverts	Access and internal culverts	$2,000
Stock Proof Fencing	Of north and west boundaries, labour to be donated	$5,000
Interpretation Panels and Signage	Of significant sites along track. 9 panels @ $1,045	$10,405
Advertising and Promotion	Of track, printing of brochures etc	$5,000
Reforestation of Bush	Internal and external planting over 3  years	$30,000
	TOTAL	$279,405

4.6  Funding of the Project

In 2007, the Department of Conservation attempted to purchase the bush area alone, for protection purposes. Unfortunately funding for the acquisition was not achieved by the Department despite full support by local management and staff.

When the opportunity to purchase the bush block, together with the open pasture to the south adjoining the Reserve arose in 2009, the Trust decided that positive steps to ensure long term protection of this unique area was the best option, and put a funding proposal to the Community Trust of Southland (CTOS).

CTOS agreed with the Trust’s vision and objectives of the acquisition and supported the cause by providing a bridging facility to ensure that the opportunity to acquire that land could be taken up. This funding facility is in the form of an interest free loan and is conditional on the Trust securing funding from other sources to cover the acquisition cost as well as facilitating designation of the land as a reserve under the Reserves Act 1977.

An application to the recently closed Nature Heritage Fund for support with the land purchase price ($150,000) has resulted in a grant of $30,000 being allocated.  The Trust have since repaid this amount to the CTOS and are due to repay the outstanding amount by 2015.

4.7  Progress to Date

The goal is to have a debt free walkway and recreational asset for the local community and visitors to enjoy.  To date the Trust have secured a total of $53,740 and this includes track sales and donations of $8,000 and grants of $35,000.  It is also important to note the in kind voluntary labour contribution totalling $10,000.

The Trust have recently completed construction of the first part of the track and interpretation panels along this section are currently being developed. 

Section 5: Waste Water Infrastructure

The Southland District Council alongside the local community has long endeavoured to identify an appropriate and affordable waste water solution and provision of toilets for Curio Bay. 

This has presented challenges in terms of:

1.         Identifying a system which accommodates the sensitivity of the local environment and significance for local iwi. 

2.         Funding this system – there is no longer the level of central government support and subsidies as there once was which then potentially leaves the burden on local ratepayers (of which there are only 28)

A solution was identified five years ago and was estimated to cost $1.3 million.  The local community and SDC investigated this as much as they could, even reaching the consent stage by attaining a discharge permit.  The insurmountable issue was funding it – the funding just couldn’t be sourced.

Since this time, visitor numbers continue to increase (even without promotion) and the infrastructure continues to struggle and fail with more regularity.  There are real concerns regarding the health and safety of the local community and visitors, let alone the extreme threat to this unique environment.

5.1  Other Options Investigated

Options to ‘cart and carry’ the waste out of the area, (particularly in peak visitor times) have been investigated. Even though this option would cost less to develop (upgrade of septic tank system), the ongoing costs of trucking the waste out of this remote location considering the volumes experienced in the peak season and projected increases in visitors make it financially unviable.  It was assessed that this did not provide a long term solution for the area.

DOC have also looked at ‘dry self contained toilet’ solutions for Curio Bay. However, the numbers of visitors and future needs and potential growth of the area mean that toilets connected to a waste water reticulated system provide a lot more certainty and protection for the local environment. 

Neither option allowed for the future growth of the area, sensitivity of the local environment and proposed developments planned in the area.

5.2  A Solution is Identified

In 2012, SDC engineers identified a solution suitable and affordable for Curio Bay.  Since the initial system had been identified 6 years previously, there had been developments in technology and this particular system has been installed at another similar location in Papatowai a short distance away.

This solution looks to be compatible with the local environment and needs of the community and iwi which is extremely important. Because it is a reticulated modular system, it provides opportunities for future connections from privately owned properties.  A key difference to the previous proposed solution is discharging the treated waste water to water onsite.  Consultation with local iwi, the community and Environment Southland is underway to further investigate this proposal.

The other significant difference is its price. Estimated to cost $500,000 - $600,000, this is under half the initially proposed system. 

5.3  Funding the Solution

Council has allocated $323,000 to date towards the provision of infrastructure at Curio Bay.  It is agreed that the priority is to address the waste water and toilet situation and therefore, all of this funding will be allocated to this. 

DOC acknowledge the responsibility they have as caretakers of the Petrified Forest platform to look after the needs of the 100,000 visitors.  They also accept that the current situation and lack of toilets and car parking is not ideal.  However, their challenge is that they are unable to contribute financially towards assets which they do not own such as a waste water system.   There has been ongoing and significant consultation with DOC in recent years, however, there do not appear to be ways around this fact. 

DOC has recently secured in principle, capital funding of approximately $500,000 towards the provision of car parking, tracking and toilets in the area.  The initial plan was to build ‘dry self contained toilets’, however with the recently identified new waste water solution, DOC see the benefits of installing flush toilets which are connected to the system.  Again, the challenge is how they can contribute considering their own rules and policies.  This funding will also be allocated to a car park, associated roading, tracking and interpretation much of which is detailed in Section 10.

The current situation remains that considering the SDC financial contribution, there is still a significant shortfall of $200,000 - $300,000.

5.4  Progress Continues

While work continues to secure the shortfall to fund the system, investigation into the system continues. 

·    SDC have contracted Opus to prepare applications for a permit to discharge which will be lodged in September 2013.  Depending on the outcome of this, the next step would be to tender the project and an exact cost would then be known.

·    Consultation with the local community and iwi is also important and underway

·    Investigation into understanding how the proposed system fits with the rest of the area

·    SDC continue to observe the system installed at Papatowai.

·    Consideration of ongoing costs of the system and partnership arrangements to fund.  

Figure 12: Smiths Bush corner where waste water is proposed to be located

Section 6: Curio Bay Recreation Reserve

The previous sections covered the Curio Bay waste water and walkway projects. The third project consists of a number of initiatives associated with the Curio Bay Recreation Reserve, in particular three key elements: 

1.   Development of a natural heritage visitor centre to be situated at the “Central Arrival Area” (including education and interpretation displays and public toilets)

2.   Redevelopment of the Curio Bay camping ground (including new amenity block containing toilets for campers and more powered camp sites)

3.   Development of the site infrastructure at Curio Bay (i.e. the new “Central Arrival Area” and associated roading, landscaping, walkways, parking).

6.1  Total Cost of the Project

The total cost to undertake all components of the upgrade of the Curio Bay Recreation Reserve is estimated to cost just under $4 million.  It can be split into three separate components (heritage centre, site infrastructure and camp ground), however all components overlap and as such need to be considered alongside each other. For example, the heritage centre can not be developed without providing suitable access roading and car parking facilities.

Total Project Cost		Estimated Cost $
Natural Heritage Centre		1,826,000
Camp Ground Redevelopment		1,385,000
Infrastructure Site Development (car park, roads, landscaping, tracking)		693,000
	TOTAL	$3,904,000

Further details regarding each of these three components are provided below as well as in Sections 7, 8, 9 and 10.

6.2  Funding for Implementation

An important point to note is that while it is essential that the project be viewed in terms of what the long term vision is, in terms of implementation, the reality is that individual components are most probably going to be funded independently from a variety of sources. For example, funding which DOC can access is eligible to fund the car park and infrastructure associated with meeting the needs of visitors to the Petrified Forest but will now be located at the “Central Arrival Area”.

To date approximately $2.2 million has been secured towards projects associated with the Curio Bay Recreation Reserve. For example, 7.5 shows confirmed sources of funding for the heritage centre.

Natural Heritage Centre
Expense	Estimated Cost $	Heritage Centre
Building	850,000	See Appendix F
Site Works 460m2	200,000	Machinery, cartage and supply of materials, testing, imported fill
Water Supply	20,000	Assume connection to spring source nearby
Heritage Interpretation	100,000	Panels, displays, audio visual system for theatre
Internal fit out	100,000	Main desk, souvenir area, soft furnishings, decorating, heating/cooling, solar panels
Landscaping	140,000	Decking, outdoor seating area, plantings, relocating of cabbage trees
Professional fees and consultation	250,000	Resource, building consents, conceptual plans, consultation with stakeholders, project management
Contingency 10%	166,000
	1,826,000

Camp Ground Redevelopment
Expense	Estimated Cost $	Notes
Ablution Block Building	565,000	See Appendix E; includes all fit out, connections.
Power	50,000	To extra camping sites
Site Works and preparation	100,000	Machinery, cartage and supply of materials, testing, imported fill, upgrade to powered sites
Tidy up	20,000	Tidy up existing toilets at Porpoise Bay, recycling existing camp shop
Car Parking and Roading	180,000	Porpoise Bay car park tidy, new roads through out camp ground and at entrance
Landscaping	180,000	Relocating flax, regrassing, headland reorganisation
Professional fees and consultation	180,000	Resource, building consents, conceptual plans, consultation with stakeholders, project management
Contingency 10%	110,000
	1,385,000

Infrastructure Site Development
Expense	Estimated Cost $	Notes
Tracking and Interpretation	50,000	Walking tracks within reserve, interpretation panels, panels, signage
Tracking and outdoor interpretation	100,000	Walking tracks, panels, interpretation, signage
Car Parking and Roads	400,000	Main car park at central arrival area, site preparation
Porpoise Bay	15,000	Improved beach access
Professional fees and consultation	60,000	Resource, building consents, conceptual plans, consultation with stakeholders, project management
Contingency 10%	68,000
	693,000

6.3  Collaborative Approach means sharing of infrastructure and associated costs

It is also important to note that since the MOU has been signed, the collaborative approach means that there is now an ability for projects to overlap and share infrastructure in particular, thus saving costs. It has also meant that the best long term solution can be identified because all parties are working together.

An example of this is the provision of toilets.  The main block of public toilets to meet the needs of the majority of all visitors to the area will be provided at the “Central Arrival Area” and attached to the Natural Heritage Centre facility.  They will be connected to the proposed waste water system and this provides long term sustainability issues and cost savings.  Previous plans had shown options of creating ‘dry toilets’ and carting away waste.

6.4  Waste Water Infrastructure

The underpinning piece of the puzzle is that the waste water issues be solved.  No other upgrades of the camp ground or development of a natural heritage centre can be attempted unless a solution is found. This has caused delays in recent times.  With the identified solution and proposed installation as soon as is possible, this allows the implementation of other components.

Section 7: The Natural Heritage Centre

7.1  Background

In 2003, the first guiding document for the area and the Trust was developed by Blakely Wallace and Associates. Entitled ‘Curio Bay 2010 and Beyond’, its key purpose was to investigate the feasibility of a tourism enterprise at Curio Bay which would:

·    maximise visitor experience

·    minimise user conflict

·    protect and enhance the natural environment and wildlife

·    foster and manage enterprise opportunities  on the site. 

Both the Trust’s and the community’s vision for this project is…

The concept has since been mandated by the wider South Catlins community, and endorsed by the Southland District Council, Department of Conservation and the Yellow Eyed Penguin Trust, amongst others. 

Ongoing consultation with these stakeholders and others such as local iwi remains a priority for the Trust.

7.2  Description

In recent years, the Trust has further investigated this concept of a Natural Heritage Centre to be located alongside the existing camping ground on the Curio Bay Recreation Reserve.  It is intended to form the hub for visitor management at the “Central Arrival Area”.  It is proposed that it will act as an interpretation, education, information and visitor dispersal point to various activities and areas within the Reserve.  It will facilitate management of tourists in particular with respect to the Petrified Forest, camp ground and yellow eyed penguins.

The facility will have a commercial focus to enable its long term viability which in turn will sustain the public good elements of the project.  Plans to date have included it consisting of a café, including internet access, camping shop store as well as an opportunity for locals to showcase and sell their own crafts. Some conceptual drawings are listed below.

7.3  Economic Benefits

The economic benefits of the project were seen as critical in order to stimulate local economic development both directly and indirectly.  With this in mind, the Trust developed a business case and in 2008 was successful in being granted funding from the Ministry of Social Development’s Enterprising Communities fund.

A total grant of $169,000 over a three period has enabled the trust to employ their Project Coordinator as well as further investigate the heritage centre concept and camping ground redevelopment. 

To date, there have been two new businesses establish as well as ongoing education and support of local businesses and the local community.

The Curio Bay Natural Heritage Centre is part of a regional approach to developing significant products to boost the visitor experience in Southland.  Most of these projects are public private sector partnerships which is encouraged and the Southland Tourism Strategy lists the importance of attracting investment through sound business case investigation.

The Southland Tourism Strategy notes that there are established iconic products such as Milford Sound and Hump Ridge Track, however the emphasis is now to develop new complimentary products such as Curio Bay in emerging areas such as The Catlins.

7.4  Progress

There have been two events since 2008 which the Trust have been unable to control and which have caused them to re-evaluate the proposed business plan which under pins the ongoing operational feasibility of the facility. The first event being the challenging economic climate and subsequent impact on availability of community grants and investment opportunities. The second event was that a developer on an adjoining section, obtained permission to operate a commercial bar/restaurant.  This encroached on the Trust’s potential business income streams. 

As a result, the Trust staged the implementation of the project and focused on ensuring that the foundations of the project were in place, ready for the eventual development of the facility. This included solving the issue of the waste water situation as well as undertaking interpretation planning regarding the stories the centre would tell.  The Trust is currently looking at the exhibit’s design and how these stories will be told.

In 2012, with the waste water situation looking to be moving towards being solved, the Trust identified a final concept for the Natural Heritage Centre building.  Looking to cost $1.8 million this as a significantly lower cost than some previous plan’s estimates.  The reason for this was that the facility was more basic in nature providing the key priorities and basics while still fitting in to its natural setting. Appendix F shows the suggested ‘look’ of the building.

7.5  Cost of the Project

The total cost to develop the heritage centre has varied in recent years alongside various planning and consultancy (Blakeley Wallace & Associates; 3 Bald Men consultants).  However it is estimated that a centre could be developed for approximately $3.9 million (including the camp ground redevelopment and associated site infrastructure – see Section 6).  The building component on its owned will cost $1.8 million.

Expense	Estimated Cost $	Note
Building	850,000	See Appendix F
Site Works 460m2	200,000	Machinery, cartage and supply of materials, testing, imported fill
Water Supply	20,000	Assume connection to spring source nearby
Heritage Interpretation	100,000	Panels, displays, audio visual system for theatre
Internal fit out	100,000	Main desk, souvenir area, soft furnishings, decorating, heating/cooling, solar panels
Landscaping	140,000	Decking, outdoor seating area, plantings, relocating of cabbage trees
Professional fees and consultation	250,000	Resource, building consents, conceptual plans, consultation with stakeholders, project management
Contingency 10%	166,000
	1,826,000

As mentioned in 3.5, almost $2.3 million has already been secured showing the commitment of various stakeholders and community funders.  Of this, almost $1.8 million has been allocated specifically towards the development of the heritage centre and details are shown below.

To date the Trust has secured:

Funder	Amount (GST incl)	Note re Grant
Mataura Licensing Trust	$300,000	Granted 2004 – 06 towards recreation reserve upgrade including heritage centre
Community Employment Group	$47,000	Granted 2005 to assist with project planning
NZ Parks & Conservation Fund	$21,000	Granted 2005 to assist with penguin management and conservation
Community Trust of Southland	$800,000	Granted in 2005 and re confirmed in 2012 (not yet uplifted).
Community Trust of Southland	$600,000	Interest free loan approved in principal in 2005
Total	$1,768,000

Section 8: The Curio Bay Camping Ground

The camping ground is situated on a recreation reserve which is managed under the Reserves Act 1977 with control vested in the Southland District Council. In 2006, Council passed over management of this Reserve to the Trust by way of a long term lease.  The Trust in turn has a service and delivery contract with the manager of the facility who operates a company called the “Curio Bay Holiday Park”.

8.1  The Current Situation

It is agreed that the current amenities are basic and need to be upgraded.  In particular the kitchen, showers and some toilets.  The managers of the camp ground are also currently constrained to operate out of a camp office which has limited facilities and space.

There have been quality issues associated with the current water source used by the camp ground which are being addressed in the short term while the long term vision of the area is worked towards.  This is associated with the age of the septic tanks.

There is currently no common room or area for people to shelter in from the weather. 

There are currently only 15 camping sites which are connected to power.  Plans indicate that this could easily be doubled with careful planning which helps to increase the viability of the camp ground as a business.

Presently there is no separation of day visitors to the beach and people camping in the camp ground.  This means that all facilities are currently shared.  All visitors also travel through the camp group passing camp sites. 

Camping is not currently preferred on the headland area, it is meant only be used as a “back up” to manage over flow of visitors in very busy times.  This is because there are no toilets close to this area and it is a sensitive area which is exposed to the weather.  The Trust also wish to try and create more picnic recreation areas by moving and replanting flax for day visitors to utilise.

8.2  The Proposed Upgrade

The objective is to allocate a specific area within the reserve for camping, reorganise the layout of that area to allow it to work efficiently, and upgrade facilities to meet or exceed user expectations - while retaining the unique wilderness feel of the location.  The Trust believes that this can be achieved with careful planning and implementation.

Paddy Baxter Design Group have completed the overall design and layout of the camping ground which includes a new Amenity/Ablution Block, more powered camp sites, realigned access road, separation of day use from campground and reorganisation of the headland.  Development of cabins has also been suggested, however this is not part of the current upgrade proposal.  

At the proposed “Central Arrival Area” will be the main parking and toilet facilities for the region as well as the natural heritage centre.  It is intended that all day to day running of the camping ground also operate out of this facility. 

The Curio Bay Holiday Park managers are working on their requirements and business plan to support this process.  It is the intention of the Trust to work alongside the community and the camping ground managers to move the upgrade forward. However, the upgrade cannot occur until a solution for waste water has been found.

8.3  Cost of the Upgrade

It is estimated that the upgrade will cost about $1.4m, however, it is dependent upon other components associated with the Curio Bay Recreation Reserve (e.g. Natural Heritage Centre and waste water).  Options to fund this upgrade will be considered alongside these other projects that the Trust and SDC are involved with.  However, it is essential that there is a private partnership with a viable business to undertake the day to day operation of the businesses.

Expense	Estimated Cost $	Notes
Ablution Block Building	565,000	See Appendix E; includes all fit out, connections.
Power	50,000	To extra camping sites
Site Works and preparation	100,000	Machinery, cartage and supply of materials, testing, imported fill, upgrade to powered sites
Tidy up	20,000	Tidy up existing toilets at Porpoise Bay, recycling existing camp shop
Car Parking and Roading	180,000	Porpoise Bay car park tidy, new roads through out camp ground and at entrance
Landscaping	180,000	Relocating flax, regrassing, headland reorganisation
Professional fees and consultation	180,000	Resource, building consents, conceptual plans, consultation with stakeholders, project management
Contingency 10%	110,000
	1,385,000

8.4  Cultural and Community Considerations

The Trust worked alongside Awarua Runanga to identify sites of significance in the Curio Bay area.  A report was developed and this has been integral in considering the proposed layout of facilities and infrastructure as well as the overall vision for the area.

The report also identified the desired process to undertake various projects and to date there has been successful collaboration on a number of initiatives in the area between all parties and local iwi.

The community have always been and will continue to be considered in all planning.  There has been a strong message from locals that they wish to retain access to the Porpoise Bay beach and headland areas and this has been incorporated into current plans. 

Consultation and the collaborative approach forward will continue.

8.5  Waste Water Infrastructure

Again, reiterating point 6.4, the underpinning piece of the puzzle is that a waste water solution be identified and implemented before any plans for an upgrade of the camp ground can be finalised and the system can be further investigated to be funded and implemented. 

This has caused delays and frustration in recent times as the Trust and local managers have continued to make do with the current standard of facilities and amenities which desperately require upgrading.  This has been particularly difficult for the local managers, whose livelihood is dependent upon this.  While people absolutely love the location and special feel of the area, there is general agreement that the facilities are sorely lacking and require upgrading.

8.6  Progress Forward

Once the plans for the waste water are confirmed, including a timeframe for implementation, plans for the camp ground can be finalised and then further investigated and costed.

At the same time, the current holiday park managers are exploring business opportunities for them to partner with the Trust and SDC in the project. Also, the Trust and SDC are currently exploring a new water source which will meet the needs of users of the Reserve and various infrastructure (waste water) as well as potentially the needs of the wider community.

Figure 17: Conceptual drawing of possible ablution multi use building

Section 9: Porpoise Bay

The Curio Bay camp ground overlooks Porpoise Bay and is situated on the south headland. It also separates Porpoise Bay from Curio Bay.  Porpoise Bay sweeps gently from its north head, at the entrance to the Waikawa Harbour around to its south head.  A pod of endangered Hector’s dolphins live here which can often be seen from the beach. 

The beach in particular has been a popular location for local families and campers for many years (and more recently high numbers of visitors) for recreation ie. Surfing, beach walking, swimming and exploring rocks.

A section of the bay is part of a Maitaitai Reserve as per the map in Appendix G, which reflects its significance for local iwi.

There are opportunities to enhance the area including the access onto the beach, interpretation and recreational and infrastructural facilities and amenities.  All of these are interlinked with the proposed upgrade of the camp ground.

9.1  Beach Access

The main access to the beach in the southern end is from the camp ground.  This consists of a track through the flaxes which is fenced off either side.  It is agreed that this current access could be upgraded to enhance access for all types of people to the beach, in particular, the elderly, and this will be further investigated.

In recent times, this access route has been altered with the addition of a gate at the bottom of it to try and deter sea lions from using it to enter the camp ground.  It was successful for a while but other solutions could continue to be investigated.

9.2  Sand Dunes

There is concerning erosion of the sand dunes along the top of the beach area.  A number of factors have probably contributed to this problem, namely activity and development on top of the sand dunes. It is also accepted that over time, this type of erosion can be expected.

This is concerning because of the sensitivity of some of the cultural sites which are becoming exposed as well as the safety concerns for beach users.

The Trust and local community have recently begun discussions with local iwi and other stakeholders to identify both short term and long term solutions.

Figure 18: Eroding sand dunes

9.3  Interpretation Opportunties

Currently there is interpretation over looking Porpoise Bay near to the current camp shop (see photo below).  This provides information about the local wildlife and environment.  There are also areas with picnic tables and some shelter for visitors to use (see photo below).

However, it is accepted that there are opportunities to enhance interpretation and signage here as well as recreation amenities for visitors.  This would be in line with the upgrade of the camp ground and potential new roading and tracking through out the Reserve.

New interpretation and signage would also ensure it is consistent with other interpretation through out the area which helps provide flow within the Reserve for visitors. See 10.6 for more information about possible interpretation.

9.4  Beach Safety

The current camp shop overlooks the Porpoise Bay beach and as such has fulfilled an important role with beach safety.  There are a large number of swimmers in the water during the summer and there have been occasions when a person in trouble in the water has been observed from the camp shop and the alarm has been raised.

With the proposed new layout and development of the “Central Arrival Area”, there will need to be thought around this to ensure this important function for the community is continued.

Section 10: Site Infrastructure Development

Section 3.4 and the map in Appendix C show the shared vision as outlined in the MOU.  This vision consists of developing a “Central Arrival Area” which is where the majority of visitors to the area would be directed to. 

From this area, visitors would be directed to other parts of Curio Bay including the Petrified Forest, Curio Bay Walkway, the camping ground, Porpoise Bay beach and the Curio Bay headland.  A network of walking tracks would be developed to access these places (suitable for wheelchairs and prams) but vehicle access would still remain for locals in particular.

The majority of infrastructure would be located near or in the “Central Arrival Area” including car parking, toilets, visitor information, camp ground office and the proposed heritage centre facility.  Directly opposite this area is where the proposed waste water infrastructure is planned and a short walk allows access to the Petrified Forest and Curio Bay Walkway.

There would need to be adjustments made to the current roading layout, especially at the current “T” intersection to ensure optimum safety and access to the Central Arrival Area.

10.1 Reasoning behind the “Central Arrival Area”

·    The shared vision addresses the key issue of improving the management of visitors and vehicles arriving in the area. 

·    By providing all infrastructure in one place it allows it to be shared while ensuring the most efficient and appropriate use of land. 

·    By encouraging walking, this lowers the amount of vehicle movements in the area, particularly with international visitors, but locals still retain the same access as before. 

·    Concentrating the infrastructure and amenities in one place also protects other more sensitive cultural and environmental places in the area.

·    It also provides an opportunity for a business associated with running the camp ground and heritage centre to be able to “capture” the majority of visitors to the area which assists with long term viability of the whole enterprise.

Expense	Estimated Cost $	Note
Tracking and Interpretation	50,000	Walking tracks within reserve, interpretation panels, panels, signage
Tracking and outdoor interpretation	100,000	Walking tracks, panels, interpretation, signage
Car Parking and Roads	400,000	Main car park at central arrival area, site preparation
Porpoise Bay	15,000	Improved beach access
Professional fees and consultation	60,000	Resource, building consents, conceptual plans, consultation with stakeholders, project management
Contingency 10%	68,000
	693,000

10.2 Access into the Area

It is agreed that the current layout of the T intersection is confusing and could be improved for overall improved visitor management and safety. 

On arrival into the area, currently, people have an option of turning left into the camping ground/beach area or right towards the Petrified Forest. 

The proposed plan is to encourage visitors to drive forward into the “Central Arrival Area” and car park.  This will be achieved by altering this current intersection and with signage.  Local people who wish to drive directly to the Porpoise Bay beach and headland areas will still be able to do this.  The improved layout is to target visitors, particularly international visitors who will want to use toilets, visit the heritage centre and petrified forest.

The new intersection will look to provide improved safety for the growing number and types of vehicles in the area.  It will also consider the needs of local farmers and residents of Mair Road in particular.

10.3 The Car Park

The proposed car park is modelled on infrastructure recently developed at the Kepler Track, a destination with similar visitor numbers and projected growth as Curio Bay.  It is planned to be able to park up to 80 vehicles, including buses and camper vans and will have a sealed surface. 

While this large sized car park may seem very large for the area (especially since the current car park only accommodates 15 car parks), it is essential to future proof as much as possible.  The vision agreed by all parties is to look at the future needs of the area and plan accordingly.  Indications are very probably that visitor numbers will continue to rise considering other developments in the area (e.g. Natural Heritage Centre).  There may be an opportunity to stage the construction of the car park however.  This is all yet to be confirmed and plans are currently still in conceptual stage.

The key challenge is to situate this infrastructure carefully and appropriately so that it is accessible and easy for people to use, but does not ‘overcome’ the local environment and people’s overall experience of the area. 

Current plans show that it looks possible to situate the car park to the right of the access road to the “Central Arrival Area” in an area currently bordering the yellow eyed penguin nesting habitat.  There will continue to be consultation with the Yellow Eye Penguin Trust, local community and engineers to ensure it is situated in the most appropriate place.

It is also envisaged to use careful and appropriate landscaping and re planting of cabbage trees and flaxes to ‘soften’ its appearance.

There are currently two plans being considered for the car park which can be seen in Appendix H.  Further investigation is required to identify what will fit best with the local environment.

10.5 Enhancement of the current water supply

The current water supply from the existing source does not meet the new standards for water quality for supplying water to 25 or more people. The Trust and SDC intends to upgrade the take point in conjunction with the rest of camping ground upgrade.  This is essential to ensure that quality and safe drinking water is provided to meet compliance and standards as well as people’s needs and expectations.

10.4 Toilets

As noted previously, there are currently no toilets for the 100,000 visitors to the Petrified Forest (they have been required to walk to the camping ground and many do not).  A key function of the “Central Arrival Area” is to provide the main block of toilets for all visitors to the area which would be connected (or situated very close) to the Natural Heritage Centre as well as the car park and arrival area.

Again, identifying a waste water solution is crucial in developing these toilets.  The solution identified would dictate the type of toilet to be provided e.g. ‘flush’ toilets connected to a waste water system or ‘dry’ toilets which would require emptying of septic tanks.

Previous plans that DOC have undertaken initially assumed that the waste water issue could not be overcome and plans were to install ‘dry’ toilets in the area.  While ‘dry’ toilets would have certainly been an improvement on the current situation, there would have been ongoing costs to cart the waste away, which can be significantly decreased by connecting to a reticulated waste water system.  It is also assumed that visitors prefer flush toilets vs dry toilets.  The most important point is that providing flush toilets connecting to a scheme, provides the best long term management and protection of the area and best meet current and projected needs.

It is also important to reiterate that the proposed amenity block within the camp ground would provide toilets and showers for campers only.  Existing toilets at Porpoise Bay would be tidied and retained for use by day and beach visitors.

10.6 Interpretation and Tracking

The benefit of creating the ‘central arrival area” is that visitors (in particular international visitors) are encouraged to park in this area and then walk the short distances to various sites e.g. petrified forest.  This provides better management in terms of controlling vehicles and dispersal of visitors. It also means that campers and day visitors can be separated. 

The key will be to ensure that visitors are firstly directed into the central arrival area and then are informed about various sites at Curio Bay and how to visit them etc.  There will then need to be sufficient tracking and pathways linking sites to the central arrival area.  These would need to be suitable for the significant quantities of people using them (e.g. 100,000 currently walking to the petrified forest) as well as accessible and appropriate for as many people as possible (e.g. push chairs, wheel chairs).

Tracks would also need to take into consideration camper’s needs and privacy, local iwi sites as well as wildlife, in particular the yellow eyed penguins. This will be achieved with ongoing consultation.

Along the tracks, interpretation could be developed to explain and interpret what people are viewing.  It would also give them an insight into the area and the history and stories associated with it.  It is envisaged that all interpretation will have a consistent look about it at all sites at Curio Bay e.g. walkway, petrified forest, Porpoise Bay.  This can be achieved with collaboration of all stakeholders and agreement of an overall interpretation plan.

Figure 20: Conceptual drawing of possible interpretation through out the Curio Bay area

Summary

There is no disputing the uniqueness and sensitivity of the area.  Visitors are coming, and will continue to be attracted to the area and the community recognise the opportunities in terms of stimulating their local economy and creating employment opportunities. 

There is a real desire from key stakeholders to work together towards addressing the significant inadequate infrastructure before it has further negative health and safety and environmental impacts.  Significant steps forward in recent times reflect this (signing of the MOU).

The provision of toilets and the waste water system underpin all future opportunities and the overall protection of the area. Now that there is an affordable solution identified and confirmed financial commitment from Council, there is a real desire to move this to forward.  This will require confirming all funding and working alongside local iwi and Environment Southland to further investigate the system.

However, plans for other components such the natural heritage centre, camp ground upgrade, curio bay walkway and new car park can also be moved forward alongside progress on the waste water.  

Appendix A: Information about the Trust

The Trust

The South Catlins Development and Environmental Charitable Trust (the Trust) was formed in 2002.  Prior to this they had been working as a steering committee called the South Catlins Community Enterprise Committee.  The Trust covers the South Catlins area, which is geographically identified as extending between and including Waikawa, Curio Bay, Otara, Tokanui, Waimahaka and Fortrose.

The Role of this Trust…                                   The Trust’s Overall Objective is…

The Trust:

·   Consists of experienced volunteer trustees who represent a community with a passion and who are committed to achieving the vision and objectives of the Trust. 

·   It is a registered charitable trust with the Companies Office and a charity with the Charities Commission.

·   Has worked hard to develop partnerships with a number of local community groups, funders and local government organisations over a number of years including local iwi.

·   By way of a long term lease with the Southland District Council (SDC), manages the Curio Bay Recreation Reserve which has the Curio Bay Camping Ground onsite.

·   Employs a part time ‘Project Coordinator’ with the assistance of the Ministry of Social Development’s Enterprising Communities Fund ($169,000).

·   Is undertaking three key projects related to development of a heritage centre, redevelopment of the camping ground and acquisition and redevelopment of Smith’s Bush block.

·   Has negotiated relevant concessions with the Department of Conservation (DOC) to undertake guided walks on the Petrified Forest.

·   Works alongside Venture Southland and Southland District Council staff.

Current Trustees:

·    Pam Callahan  - Chairperson

·    Nigel Stirling  - Treasurer

·    Greta Buckingham  - Secretary

·    Paul Duffy

·    Judy Leith - Iwi representative

·    Peter Crosbie

·    Jim Burns

·    Thomas Buckingham

·    Dani Stratford

·    Bruce Lamb

·    Milton Smith

Appendix B: Memorandum of Understanding

Appendix C: The Vision for Curio Bay

Appendix D: Mike Pole Supporting Information

Appendix E: Building Plan for Ablution Block

Appendix F: Building Plan for Natural Heritage Centre

Appendix G: Waikawa Harbour Maitaitai Reserve

Appendix H: Possible Plans for the Car Park

Council

18 May 2016