The Community Plan - Thames-Coromandel District Council
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PART 1 The Community Plan
Purpose
The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
1. Purpose
Pauanui, situated on the Pacific Coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, is a unique and special place. Much
of this is due to it being comprehensively planned and developed to the highest possible standards.
However, while there are many qualities presently valued by the community, Pauanui faces significant
growth and development pressures. Pauanui has already undergone changes to its character. An example
of this is, the replacement of baches and utilities on some sections with large modern city-type dwellings.
Changes may often be good but unless the community clearly articulates the future that it wants for
Pauanui and guides change towards that future, its unique qualities could be lost.
The Local Government Act 2002 requires the Thames - Coromandel District Council (the Council) to
identify outcomes sought by communities in the District and gives those communities the opportunity
to discuss and express the outcomes that are important to them.
While there are
At the same time, Pauanui community representatives have indicated a strong desire to produce a
many qualities Community Plan and this document is a result of the desire to carefully plan the future of the area. The
purpose of the Community Plan is to enable the Pauanui community:
presently valued
• to set out its desired outcomes in terms of present and future social, economic, environmental and
by the community, cultural wellbeing;
• to discuss the relative importance and priorities of identified outcomes;
Pauanui faces • to provide a means of measuring progress towards achieving those outcomes;
• to promote the better co-ordination and application of community resources; and
significant growth • to inform and guide priority setting by the Council and other organisations.
and development Community Planning Process
pressures. Pauanui This Community Plan will help the Council in identifying community outcomes for the District as a
whole. The community has expressed its desired outcomes, concerns and priorities through a series
has already of meetings and displays, through Working Group meetings and through a questionnaire survey. The
consultation process is summarised as follows:
undergone changes
• Community Meeting held on Monday, 2 August 2004 – 40 people present.
to its character. • “Vision Pauanui” Display on 23 and 24 October 2004 – 2,560 people attended.
• Questionnaires mailed out to 1,999 ratepayers – with 761 responses (38%).
• Questionnaire Summary Report, presented to Community Board on 9 December 2004, with
approval given for Working Group to be set up.
• Working Group of 11 people selected on a representative basis from 283 respondents who
indicated their interest in being further involved – first meeting 10 January 2005.
• Letter in December 2004 to Te Ruunanga a Iwi o Ngati Tamatera seeking guidance on Iwi input.
• Monthly meetings of Working Group – January to August 2005. Public invited to attend as
observers, as advised through “Pauanui Update”.
• Consultation Day – Pauanui Information Centre – Saturday 26 March 2005 (Easter) – over 60
people attended and comments obtained from 56 people.
• Pre-draft “Vision Pauanui” Community Plan mailed to key stakeholders – August 2005.
7“Vision Pauanui”
The Draft Pauanui Community Plan was notified for public comment in October 2005 with submissions
being received up until 11 November 2005 providing a four-week submission period. The Draft Plan was
also the subject of an extensive consultation exercise and workshop series conducted at the Information
Centre on Labour Weekend in 2005. A public meeting was also held on Labour Day to provide an
explanation of the Community Plan process and content of the Plan, particularly related to the growth
and development section.
Community inputs have been grouped under a number of headings:
• Cultural
• Social
• Natural Environment
• Environmental Infrastructure
• Economic The Community
• Growth and Development
• Amenities. Board on behalf of
As a community, we have clearly set out: and in partnership
• What we have; with the community
• What we need/require;
• What we don’t want; and will have to monitor
• The priorities for action.
progress annually
This Community Plan has an outlook of 25 years but it will be reviewed every six years as part of the
Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) process, the first such review being in 2010. and constantly
The Community Board on behalf of and in partnership with the community will have to monitor advocate for the
progress annually and constantly advocate for the Plan outcomes to be achieved.
Plan outcomes to be
achieved.
8The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
Map One: An aerial view of Pauanui
9History
The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
2. History
Pre-European Settlement
Due to the predominantly flat nature of the majority of Pauanui, Maori habitation of the area was
focused on temporary occupation. The lack of naturally occurring land features that could be easily
defended did not encourage permanent settlement. Evidence of pre-European settlement is apparent in
a number of recorded archaeological sites including Te Karaka Pa at Tangitarori Lane.
European Settlement
The area was first developed for farming in the early 1950’s with limited access. In the late 1960’s
construction of State Highway 25A (also known as the Kopu – Hikuai Road) brought Pauanui and the
wider Coromandel to within reasonable driving distance of the Waikato and Auckland areas.
Comprehensive Development
Key to the development of Pauanui as it is today, was the initial purchase of land from the Needham
family by the Hopper brothers. At that time, the Hoppers were already involved in land development
in the Whangaparaoa area north of Auckland. Securing a large, undeveloped area of land at Pauanui,
provided the ideal opportunity to ‘master-plan’ a new township.
The results of this comprehensive planning approach, undertaken with a focus on achieving a family
friendly development in the 1960’s, now characterises the Pauanui community. Features included
underground power, dual carriageway roads with central islands, a reticulated sewage system, high
levels of open space and excellent pedestrian access. While many design components of the original
development of Pauanui were innovative and the first of their kind in New Zealand, they are now
incorporated into many other modern developments.
With its attractive coastal environment and its accessibility to a large part of the North Island population,
the continued and potentially increasing popularity of Pauanui as a destination is assured. The challenge is
one of protecting and enhancing the character of Pauanui in a way that draws people to the area.
Our Community Today
Today Pauanui comprises a mixed population of permanent residents and holidaymakers. The population
of the town fluctuates throughout the year as visitors and holidaymakers come and go. The base of
permanent residents has a median age higher than the rest of New Zealand. In fact almost 4 in 10
people living in Pauanui are aged 65 years and older. Pauanui also has a lower median income than the
rest of New Zealand. The town presents a popular lifestyle choice for retirees.
The area covered by this Community Plan is shown on Map 1, page 9. It includes:
• the Pauanui Core area and foothills;
• the Pauanui Waterways area; and
• the Kiwifruit Block, a largely undeveloped area on Tangitarori Lane
11Vision
The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
3.Vision
Pauanui is a planned resort, using unique design concepts to create a park-like seaside suburb for
permanent and holiday residents. The beautiful surroundings, enhanced by careful planning, have set a
standard that is precious and must be protected and safeguarded for present and future generations. We
want a community that is quiet, safe and relaxed, with emphasis on open space and family enjoyment.
Our Vision
To protect and enhance the park-like seaside resort of Pauanui for
present and future generations, while enhancing its economic viability and
accommodating limited growth.
In essence this entails:
• recognition of the importance of maintaining the beautiful physical surroundings and public open
space into the future;
• recognition of the resort nature of Pauanui and continuing to provide a viable, safe, family friendly
community for both permanent and holiday residents; and
• careful, forward thinking planning with appropriate development controls.
The vision attempts to capture what the community has said in all of its inputs. Apart from some major
infrastructure works, this is not a “big spend” vision. The community is already rich in what it has, in terms
of environment, lifestyle, facilities and amenities. This is a “care and manage” vision, however at the same
time it is not a “stand still and freeze” vision. One important aspect is to balance the unique values with
very selective growth and economic development, to increase employment and the permanent resident
population base, in turn improving the viability of businesses, services and facilities that cannot presently
be sustained throughout the year.
A set of community outcomes has been formulated to guide the Council, the community and other
organisations toward the achievement of the Vision.
13Community outcomes
The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
4. Community outcomes
The Pauanui community has an opportunity to express its desired outcomes for the future. These
outcomes provide a clear message about what the community wants in terms of the preservation of
unique qualities, community wellbeing, planning, development and spending in the Pauanui area.
The Pauanui Community will strive for:
• A quiet, proud and relaxed community with an emphasis on open space and family enjoyment.
• A healthy and safe community with a strong sense of wellbeing.
• A quality natural environment with carefully integrated development.
• A reliable network of services supporting our fluctuating population while protecting and enhancing
our unique environment.
• An economy that supports a viable and vibrant community.
• A built environment that reinforces the original design ethos.
• A place for recreation and relaxation in a parkland by the sea.
It is intended that the Council and other organisations with a role in the present and future
management of Pauanui, will be aware of and work to ensure that their involvement in Pauanui is
consistent with the Vision and Outcomes recorded in this Community Plan.
The Community Plan provides detailed, prioritised action lists with each action making a contribution
toward achieving one or more of the community outcomes.
15The Pauanui Community Plan - Needs and priorities
The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
5.The Pauanui Community Plan – Needs and priorities
This section sets out the needs and priorities of our community under a number of headings.
5.1 Cultural
Heritage and Character
Outcome: A quiet proud and relaxed community with an emphasis on open
space and family enjoyment.
“Pauanui has an atmosphere engendered by its beautiful surroundings. In planning the resort it was
desired to maintain and, where possible, enhance this ‘feeling’ by using totally new concepts in design
to create what will eventually be a garden seaside suburb unique in New Zealand or, for that matter,
in the Southern Hemisphere”. Quote from Pauanui Ocean Beach Report sales brochure 1968.
By careful and generous use of open space, the essential character of the area has been preserved by
the Developers. It is ‘a parkland by the sea’ – with provision of amenities associated with a prestigious
residential development.
Pauanui caters for a permanent resident and holidaymaker population from inside and outside New
Zealand. It is a quiet and relaxed place, with an emphasis on nature, family enjoyment, sports, beach,
walking, cycling, boating, and other recreational pursuits. People come from all walks of life and this
creates a unique, friendly, “laid back” culture, which the community is keen to retain. As land prices and
demands increase however, this culture may change. It may be increasingly difficult for some people to
afford to live or holiday in Pauanui. This may require attention when the Community Plan is reviewed.
For now though, the community wishes to preserve the unique lifestyle that Pauanui offers.
It is the wish of the Pauanui community to acknowledge in an appropriate way the outstanding vision of
the Hopper brothers in developing the original concept of Pauanui.
17“Vision Pauanui”
What we need
Task, action or need Priority* Responsibility
Community to be encouraged to be positive and protective O Business Association /
(ie mentioned in any pamphlets/ publicity material). Community
Everyone to be encouraged to support facilities that are available O Community
and participate in events.
Investigate appropriate ways of recognising the Hopper brothers’ O Community
vision by providing a tangible acknowledgement
Maintain unique standards that were originally established ie open M Council / Developers
spaces, wide roads and abundance of trees.
Property owners encouraged to maintain their properties, including M Community
grass verges, to a high standard.
* In the table above, priorities are expressed as:
1 = Urgent - Now 3 = within 5 years M Maintenance
2 = Important – within 2 years 4 = within 10 years O Ongoing Task
We don’t want
• Poor building design and building standards.
• Original vision and standards to be lost.
• Poor maintenance of properties, including grass verges.
• A lack of support for events and complaints from one or two people resulting in an event being
stopped.
18The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
5.2 Social
Health, Safety, Wellbeing, Social Services and Facilities
Outcome: A healthy and safe community with a strong sense of wellbeing.
In 2001, the median age of residents in Pauanui was 59.9 years, compared with the national median age
of 34 only years. The median age is expected to increase in the future, to around 63 years in 2021.
Around 12% (just over 1 in 10) of the Pauanui resident population was under the age of 15 in 2001,
while almost 37% (over 3 in 10) were aged 65 years and over.
The median income of people resident in Pauanui was $16,100 in 2001, compared with figures of
$14,700 for the whole Thames-Coromandel District and $18,500 for all of New Zealand. This could
reflect the number of retirees in the area. There could be a significant difference between the income of
the resident community and the non-resident property owners.
The health, safety and sense of wellbeing of our community is paramount. While we do have a range of
social facilities that we value, people do not always know about them. We need to support and preserve
our social services and to work toward improved awareness and communication about these facilities.
We also need to work towards some improvements and extensions to these facilities.
19“Vision Pauanui”
What we need
Task, action or need Priority* Responsibility
Police presence at peak periods and school holidays, and for a longer 1 Community Board
time. / NZ Police
All Bylaws are enforced by Council in order to ensure a healthy and 1 Council
safe living environment.
Investigate ways of achieving more support for the Pauanui medical 1 Ministry of Health /
services. Health Forum
Implement a communication strategy to: 2 Community
a) Produce a Quarterly Newsletter of topical community issues.
b) Ensure people know about Civil Defence reporting areas and know
emergency numbers.
c) Advise how to use 94.1 CFM for communication in an emergency
d) Advise of Neighbourhood Watch contacts and how to get involved.
Formulate a house numbering programme to enable emergency 2 Community
services to find homes when needed.
Library – Ensure that there will be room for the library to 2 Council /
expand somewhere within the community to keep pace with Community Board
general population expansion. See also the section on Amenities
below.
Property owners to be discouraged from building high fences, M Community
particularly along our walkways, making them less safe and less
attractive.
Investigate alternative venues for Play School and for Senior Net, in the 3 Play School /
future to cater for expansion. Senior Net
Ensure better access to Council elected representatives. O Council
* In the table above, priorities are expressed as:
1 = Urgent - Now 3 = within 5 years M Maintenance
2 = Important – within 2 years 4 = within 10 years O Ongoing Task
We don’t want
• Vandalism and “hoons” at peak holiday times, spoiling the character of Pauanui.
• Walkways bounded by high fences making them unsafe and unattractive and a target for taggers.
• To lose any medical services.
• We would not like to see Pauanui Library lose its independence and identity.
• Pupils and parents moving away from Pauanui because of the amount of time spent travelling to and
from secondary schools and related activities.
20The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
5.3 Natural Environment
Bush, Coastline, Estuary,Tairua River, Streams, Parks and Reserves
Outcome: A quality natural environment with carefully integrated
development.
Pauanui is our environment. We come here to live and holiday to enjoy what Pauanui is and continues
to be. Whilst taking into account the inevitable changes, which will occur over the next 25 years, the
Pauanui community must safeguard both the vision of the past, while retaining and safeguarding the
environment now and in the future.
The protection of key areas needs to be balanced with sustainable development that recognises the
importance of the natural environment. In essence this means that while some areas will be protected
to ensure the special characteristics of the natural environment are maintained, careful development will
not be precluded. In trying to keep this balance, artificial structures such as benches, toilet blocks, bins,
parking areas and signs, while providing amenity, should not dominate the natural environment.
What we need
Task, action or need Priority* Responsibility
Stricter implementation of District Plan standards in relation to building 1 Council /
encroachment onto open space and walkways. Community Board
Maintain the high ratio of existing parks and reserves to unit lots as 1 Council
at 2005 for all future development in new greenfield areas. Obtain
development contributions for the Council to provide additional reserve
land in Pauanui, in accordance with a strategy for reserves acquisition.
Upgrade of Surf Club Reserve and Windsock Reserve roading and 1 Community Board
parking areas.
Encourage planting and preservation of urban trees as per the Pauanui
Tree Master Plan, in close consultation with residents:
• Investigate ways in which to encourage people to plant large-type O Parks & Reserves
trees in their gardens that will attract native birds. Committee
• All trees on reserves, medians and berms to be maintained regularly M Council
by fertilisation, mulching and pruning. Planting of themed trees in
medians and in parks and reserves
• Trees along edge of drain on Waterways Parade/ Golf Course to be M Council
trimmed annually.
• Replacement of Radiata Pines along Estuary Reserve with Radiata O Council
Pines or as per Tree Master Plan.
Wetland Walkway areas to be planted with shade trees and facilities, 2 Parks & Reserves
such as seating, picnic tables, and signs. Committee
Provide a plan to ensure comfortable seating of lasting nature on more 2 Parks & Reserves
neighbourhood reserve areas. Committee
Improve South End Beach reserve and garden areas, seating amenities 2 Parks & Reserves
and accessways. Committee
21“Vision Pauanui”
Establish a feature focal point at Royal Billy Reserve, ie large size, specially 2 Community Board
designed, mounted Paua shell. World directional sign. Story of Royal Billy
to add to the function of the reserve other than simply as a trailer and
car parking area.
Tangitarori Lane Reserve – Use of this area is expected to increase and 2 Community Board
picnic areas, toilet facilities, children’s play areas should be included in
planning for the area.
Extend walkway south to Opoutere. 3 Coastal Walkways
Society
Improve walkway surface of path from Flat Rock area. 3 Coastal Walkways
Society
Prepare Cycleway and Walkway Strategy with a list of priorities and 3 Council
follow through in implementing the resulting projects to provide an
integrated open space network.
Explore feasible and sustainable measures to reduce coastal erosion O Community Board
such as groynes on estuary foreshore, Pleasant Point/ Sheppard Avenue / Environment
and, subject to Community Board approval, install these if they will be of Waikato
benefit in reducing erosion.
Improve signage in numerous areas, particularly airfield, beach accessways, O Council
car parks, foreshore (fragility of dunes), bush walking tracks, toilets, boat
ramps (shell fish limits), South End beach, Surf Club, Royal Billy Point,
Pleasant Point, Tangitarori Lane reserve.
Better pest control measures particularly control of possums and urban O Environment
rabbits to reduce numbers in the short term and eradicate in the long Waikato
term.
Much improved maintenance of all Council garden areas. M Council
Tidy up of Pleasant Point – bollards, road edges, trees in medians, M Council
spraying, signage.
All old style and missing bollards replaced. M Council
Significant debris on foreshore of estuary, due to storm flooding, to be M Environment
cleared away promptly. (Council has responsibility for this task above Waikato / Council
Mean High Water Spring tide (MHWS))
Work with Beachcare and Environment Waikato for protection and O Environment
enhancement of dunes to reduce erosion and assist in erosion recovery Waikato /
where this occurs. Beachcare
Manage jet skis to minimise noise. O Environment
Waikato
Work with Environment Waikato to improve care of neglected portions O Community Board
of our streams over which it exercises authority. / Environment
Waikato
Work with Environment Waikato to improve protection of Tairua Estuary O Community Board
from pollution and sedimentation. The community recognises the need / Environment
to manage the wider catchment. Waikato
* In the table above, priorities are expressed as:
1 = Urgent - Now 3 = within 5 years M Maintenance
2 = Important – within 2 years 4 = within 10 years O Ongoing Task
22The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
We don’t want
• Housing/ buildings encroaching further into present bush area of the foothills, beyond that allowed
by current District Plan zonings.
• Nutrients and further siltation affecting the Tairua River estuary, particularly after heavy rains.
• Power boats/ craft dominating use of the estuary and river, as opposed to non-motorised uses, such
as yachts, canoes, windsurfers.
• Intrusion of activities that will detract from the present peaceful atmosphere.
• Future generations to miss out on the same ratio of park and reserve areas presently enjoyed in
Pauanui.
• Any reduction in the allowance for reserves and open space as Pauanui grows.
• Rabbits, or any other pests, that destroy the grass and ground cover so crucial to the environment
of a sand-based community.
• Council contractors being paid before works are completed to approved standards.
• Any reduction in standards by rubbish collectors and other contractors.
• Damaged rubbish bags left too long resulting in rubbish blowing around the streets.
• Any type of development that will have an undue impact on the local environment.
23“Vision Pauanui” 5.4 Environmental Infrastructure Wastewater Plant, Water Supply, Stormwater, Solid Waste, Roading and Power Supply Outcome: A reliable network of services supporting our fluctuating population while protecting and enhancing our unique environment. The major provider of services in Pauanui is the Thames - Coromandel District Council. Environment Waikato has a role mainly as consenting authority in the provision of town infrastructure by the Council. A range of utility companies provide power and telecommunications. 5.4.1 Wastewater Treatment The Thames-Coromandel District Council operates a treatment plant located on Hikuai Settlement Road for the treatment and disposal of sewage from Tairua and Pauanui. In 2000, following extensive investigations, consultation and formal Resource Management Act proceedings, the Council secured consents to build and operate a new treatment plant on forest land south of Pauanui Township (the “Gumdigger site”) and to dispose of treated effluent to Vista Paku, the forest and to the harbour via a gravel seep. However, due to significant difficulties in obtaining required agreements with the landowner, lessee and Iwi, the relocation of the treatment plant and its associated forest irrigation and gravel seep options were abandoned. The Council, at its 30 March 2005 meeting, resolved to use an open tender, single multi-stage turnkey project for the Tairua-Pauanui, Whitianga and Whangamata plants. The location of the existing treatment plant has always been a concern to the community as it is very visible at the entrance of this attractive resort town. 5.4.2 Wastewater Disposal The present wastewater disposal system consists primarily of a series of rapid sand infiltration basins in the median strip of Vista Paku Drive, Pauanui, and other temporary disposal areas within the Pauanui Waterways development land. The system has experienced disposal capacity limitations since 1994. Consent has been obtained (January 2005) for disposal of highly treated water underground into Vista Paku, Kennedy Park and the Airfield. The community has a strong desire to see treated water used for watering of the two golf courses, and other parks and reserves in Pauanui. Additional areas for disposal need to be considered and progressed for consent – to cope with the growth of Pauanui and Tairua for the next 25 years. 5.4.3 Water Supply The original source of water for Pauanui was from the underground aquifer. This is a much prized and protected source of supply and is carefully guarded from contamination. However, it needs to be carefully protected from over use. In an emergency in which the reticulated town supply was disabled, this would be the only source of water supply for the Pauanui area. 24
The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
Pauanui’s water is sourced from Oturu Stream on the northern side of the estuary and an aquifer
– south of the Airfield, but these sources are considered to be insufficient to meet long-term demand.
5.4.4 Stormwater
Due to well thought out and comprehensive landscaping when Pauanui was developed, most residential
stormwater seeps through the ground and road run-off is directed to culverts located in the median
strips of roadways, where it soaks back into the ground. Stormwater outlets creating erosion on the
ocean beach and harbour estuary are of considerable concern to the community. Hills surrounding
Pauanui create a catchment for rainbombs, which can cause significant damage. The Holland Lake
stormwater system is a Council system for managing this stormwater.
5.4.5 Solid Waste
In the past, household rubbish was disposed of at a compactor located in what is now Lake Court.
When this land was needed for development the compactor was closed and street collection
commenced on what was to be a temporary basis. A refuse reception centre was then suggested – to
be located immediately behind the shops, on Council land – but did not find favour. This resulted in a
site being purchased, by way of a loan, where the present Transfer Station is located. Council-owned
land behind the shops was sold in 2002/03 to help offset the balance owing on the Hikuai Settlement
Road site. Unfortunately, this is not regarded as an ideal location at the entrance to our resort town as
it is not in keeping with our attractive environment. There is an urgent need for high quality landscaping
of this whole area.
5.4.6 Roading
The only road access into and out of Pauanui is along Hikuai Settlement Road which joins State Highway
25 (SH25) at Prescott’s Garage, Hikuai. This makes Pauanui vulnerable when the road is blocked
by flooding or slips. Although the route passes through scenic countryside, the area at the refuse
transfer station and wastewater treatment plant as well as clear felled forest areas along the route, are
unattractive.
The town has a good network of very high standard roading throughout.
5.4.7 Power Supply
PowerCo provides electricity to Pauanui. As well as the convenience of a reliable power supply,
Pauanui is dependent on power to keep other essential services such as the treatment plant operating,
particularly at peak times.
25“Vision Pauanui”
What we need
Task, action or need Priority* Responsibility
Wastewater Treatment
Address and significantly reduce level of stormwater infiltration into the sewerage system 1 Council
Prompt decision on a contractor to design/build a new treatment plant. 1 Council
Prompt commencement and completion of construction of plant 1 Council
Superior and comprehensive landscaping of road verges along Hikuai Settlement Road 1 Council
in vicinity of treatment plant site and a landscaping programme to visually obscure the
treatment plant and buildings, reduce odours, noise and visual impacts and to beautify
the earthworks “scar” on the road opposite the plant.
Good management of the treatment plant by all concerned. O Council
Adhere to Environment Waikato consent conditions. O Council
Wastewater Disposal
Prompt completion of treatment plant, which will provide treated water of the quality 1 Council
needed for this disposal system.
Council to provide a report identifying potential beneficial reuse options for treated 1 Council
wastewater (ie to golf courses). Subject to the findings, promote and facilitate the use
of treated water for irrigation of the golf courses, and other parks and reserves.
Removal of fences around infiltration pits in the median strip of Vista Paku Drive and 3 Council
high quality landscaping of the area, once subsurface disposal is achieved.
Excellent management of the existing disposal system and no overflows of treated O Council
water from infiltration pits.
Adhering to Environment Waikato consent conditions at all times. O Council
Water Supply
Completion of Water Strategy for Pauanui in conjunction with the community 1 Council /
Community Board
Consideration of another reservoir. 1 Council /
Community Board
Stormwater
Investigate and eliminate stormwater intrusion into the sewerage system from Tairua 1 Council /
and Pauanui properties. Community Board
Investigate widening and upgrading of floodgates at Waterways Parade to eliminate 1 Council
flooding issues and cope with additional stormwater due to proposed development.
Redesign outfall of stormwater, to harbour, from development areas like Pauanui 1 Council
Heights, Arcadia Heights, Pauanui Mountain Estate, and proposed Orange Grove.
Investigate ways to prevent the Mount Avenue culvert causing flooding at Holland 1 Council
Stream and create a clearway in upper part of stream.
Total removal of beach outfalls by designing new discharges to harbour and to Holland 3/4 Council
Stream (could be staged).
Regular maintenance (including weed spraying) of Holland Stream, Holland Lake and M Council / Pauanui
the drain from Holland Lake across Lakes Golf Course along Waterways Parade. Sports and
Recreation Club
Repair and clear median and road culverts. M Council
Repair beach outfalls. M Council
Redesign cesspits (which at present block and cause local flooding), i.e. fit backwash 1 Council
type entry
26The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
Solid Waste
Revise layout of Transfer Station to be completed without further delay. 1 Council
Extensive education of property owners/ visitors re rubbish collection ‘rules’, including 1 Council
the option of disposing of bags at Transfer Station
Display details of where to dispose of hardfill and dangerous goods. 1 Council
Arrange longer days and hours of operation of Transfer Station. 1 Council / Ratepayers
and Residents
Improved ‘housekeeping’, landscaping, signage at Transfer Station. M Council
Improved collection methods/no collection, to be looked at with each review. Moloks 2 Council
could be placed at convenient points around the town - to avoid rubbish bags being
left on roadsides for days at a time.
Roading
Develop a Pauanui standard for street lighting and walkway lighting that avoids 2 Community Board
“light pollution” but promotes safety and specify in the District Plan as part of the
Community Plan variation to include low level lighting and flood lighting at intersections.
Vehicle crossing Bylaw to be enforced by Council. 1 Council
Hikuai Settlement Road:
• Dangerous trees to be felled. 1 Council
• Speed limit 70kph from Transfer Station to start of 50kph zone. 1 Council
• Tangitarori Lane – right turn lane to be created. 2 Council
• Improved defined entrance at entrance to Pauanui. 2 Council
• Duck Creek bridge to be made 2-way – landscape enhancement. 2 Council
• Flood risk elimination including permanent culvert at Gumdiggers Stream. 3 Council
• Install monolith-type lit structure making ‘statement’ of arrival in Pauanui. 3 Economic
Development Unit
• Work with forestry companies to plant marginal strips of native vegetation along Hikuai 3 Community Board
Road on forest boundaries, reducing the visual impact when clear felling takes place. / Council
• Dangerous corners to be eliminated. 4 Council
Note: there is no LTCCP funding for road works until 2014.
Construct additional footpaths as per priority list presented to Community Board in 2004. 1 Community Board
Investigate an upgrade of Sheppard Avenue south – in the vicinity of Play Centre / 2 Council / Pauanui
tennis courts. Sports and
Recreation Club
Degree of turn at shopping centre roundabout to be made greater. Jubilee Drive and Centreway 2 Council
Replace damaged drive-over kerbings. M Council
Ensure roading in future developments is consistent with original style and design. O Council
Street signs to remain white on green. O Council
Red seal to be reinstated on all roundabouts and road repairs to be done in red seal. 3 Council
Address street flooding issues O Council
Power Supply
A reliable and continuous power supply. M PowerCo.
Plan to ensure that modern communication needs for national and international O Economic
communications are met. Development Unit
Power company to maintain power plinth boxes regularly. M PowerCo.
* In the table above, priorities are expressed as:
1 = Urgent - Now 3 = within 5 years M Maintenance
2 = Important – within 2 years 4 = within 10 years O Ongoing Task
27“Vision Pauanui” What we don’t want Wastewater Treatment We don’t want: • Stormwater intrusion which gives rise to degradation of the reticulated sewerage system. • Any further delays in commencing construction of the treatment plant, a much needed and awaited facility. • Any further delays in lifting the moratorium on subdivisions, which has been in place since September 2000. • Odours, noise and unacceptable visual impact of the treatment plant. • Any stormwater entering the plant – this is a problem which emanates especially from Tairua. • Any further ‘spills’ of treated wastewater into the canals or estuary. • Existing road at entrance to Pauanui to remain a scarred and unattractive “blot” on the landscape. Wastewater Disposal We don’t want: • Any delays in allowing the consented disposal system to operate. • Any further delays in lifting the moratorium on subdivisions, which has been in place since September 2000. • Poor use of this highly treated wastewater by simply pouring it into the ground – out of sight. • Poor management of system of disposal. Water supply We don’t want: • Any decision/s made on Pauanui’s water supply without full and complete discussion with the community. • Any addition of chemicals such as chlorine and others to Pauanui’s water supply without full and complete discussion with the community. Stormwater We don’t want: • Any stormwater entering the sewerage system and necessitating unnecessary overload. Solid Waste We don’t want: • Rubbish strewn around streets – any day of the week – as a result of rubbish being put out on the wrong day and/ or broken into by seagulls. • Rubbish trucks arriving after midday to collect household rubbish which has been put out on roadsides by 7.30 am at the latest – and often on the Sunday afternoon/ evening prior. Roading We don’t want: • Black sealed roads – Pauanui will lose some of its uniqueness and attractiveness. • To lose any more trees or shrubs other than are necessary and without replanting. • Too much street lighting. Power Supply We don’t want: • Power outages at crucial times, ie peak periods – which have occurred within the last 3 years. 28
The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
5.5 Economic
Business Development, Retail,Tourism and Employment
Outcome: An economy that supports a viable and vibrant community.
The highly peaked use of Pauanui constrains business development and the small (mainly service based)
businesses that do establish, face extremely variable cash flows. The sustainable provision of medical and
educational services will always be difficult if the permanent population base is small. If these services
are curtailed or discontinued, the permanent resident base could be further eroded.
In an effort to attract more permanent residents the development of a quality ‘signature designed’,
commercial/ retail precinct should be encouraged to provide a greater choice of retail outlets.
Because of its appealing environment, Pauanui could also prove particularly attractive to businesses/
employees able to work from home, or from custom-built premises designed to allow tele-working.
The lack of key retail, commercial and social services (health) and the loss of affordable housing,
may discourage permanent residence by younger in-work families. Similarly, essential services for the
retiree community such as a medical centre, may exacerbate the decline of the resident base. 77% of
respondents to the Community Questionnaire saw the promotion of tourism as being important to
Pauanui to build the economic base. The unique quality aspects of Pauanui have the potential to use
tourism as a greater economic driver and ‘a must see’ stopping place.
29“Vision Pauanui”
What we need
Task, action or need Priority* Responsibility
Retail
Activate the Business Association to, among other things, promote 1 Business Association
annual awards for Business of the Year.
Obtain premises and operators for a pharmacy agency, and 2 Business Association
hairdresser.
Economic Development and Employment
Seek professional economic development advice to examine all
possibilities including:
• Provision of excellent services and goods which are attractive to 1 Business Association
tourists.
• Adequate accommodation facilities to service the growth of 1 Business Association
tourism and events.
• Investigations for a promotional sign on SH25. 1 Community
• Establishment of a Pauanui Economic Development and Events 2 Business Association
Unit.
• Seek funding for and prepare an Employment, Business and 2 Economic
Tourism Promotion Strategy to support and progress employment Development Unit
opportunities.
• Promote technology/ tele-working and other home-based 2 Economic
businesses (Development by Design concept). Development Unit
• Inform prospective employees that affordable rental housing exists O Business Association
in Pauanui for much of the year.
• Investigate potential issues associated with lack of affordable 3 Community Board
accommodation, linking in to work done by other Councils.
* In the table above, priorities are expressed as:
1 = Urgent - Now 3 = within 5 years M Maintenance
2 = Important – within 2 years 4 = within 10 years O Ongoing Task
What we don’t want
• People to perceive and use Pauanui as a holiday destination only and choose not to live here
permanently because of a lack of basic services and facilities.
• Heavy industry or business types that will detract from Pauanui’s highly valued environment.
• Any more storage sheds sited in Town Centre zone.
• Bus loads of people arriving with no incentive to get off the bus.
30The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
5.6 Growth and Development
Housing, Development, Subdivision, Open Space and Landscape
Outcome: A built environment that reinforces the original design ethos.
5.6.1 Introduction
The design character or “design ethos” of Pauanui is one which incorporates a high level of public and
private open space in relation to total developed area, combined with quality landscaping and low site
coverage. This results in a high standard park-like urban environment.
5.6.2 Previous building standards
Originally, building covenants were registered on section titles requiring purchasers to abide by specific
standards relating to both building design and materials. The intention was to protect the investment of
residents against “sub-standard” housing. Some covenants continue today and are identified on property
titles. However, most covenants expired 20 or 25 years after the section was originally created.
It is unlikely that “Pauanui” will be repeated elsewhere. Under present planning requirements it would
be difficult to replicate a similar set of standards – Pauanui is a “one off ”.
5.6.3 Responses to the Community Questionnaire on housing
The majority of responses to the Community Questionnaire (648 of 884 responses or 73.3% of them),
strongly favoured conventional housing (for example, one dwelling per 600 m2 or 700m2 section) as
the most appropriate form of development for Pauanui. 13.8% favoured low-density housing options.
There was also some support (13% of responses) for high-density housing options in the form of in-fill
development, town-houses, units and apartments.
5.6.4 Present situation
At the time of the 2001 Census, there were 1,923 dwellings in Pauanui and the town had a permanent
resident population of 678 people. The number of dwellings is increasing and it is estimated (in 2005)
that there are around 2,050 dwellings in Pauanui.
Sketch plan of Vista Paku by
Frank Easdale, 1967
31“Vision Pauanui” Although the town has a small permanent population, there is a constantly fluctuating visitor population. Water consumption figures for the period October 2003 to December 2004, show that: • there were only 8 days during that time when the population was below 800; • there are between 1,300 and 1,800 people in Pauanui during weekends in winter; • from early October, the population grows to between 2,400 and 4,000 people; • on holiday weekends and during school holidays the population can grow to between 4,000 and 10,000; and • the population peaks at around 12,000 over the Christmas – New Year period. The following factors suggest continuing strong dwelling growth for Pauanui into the future. They are: • the ongoing demand for coastal property; • improved infrastructure; • population growth particularly in Auckland; • the increase in home-based employment; • increasing numbers of people reaching retirement age; and • the availability of land for further development. 5.6.5 Development potential Under the existing District Plan Zones (See Map 2 on page 67) (including the Future Development Policy Areas) there is the potential for another 1,600 dwellings to be built in Pauanui, over and above the 2,050 already existing. Some of these will be built in recent subdivisions such as: • Oceanair Drive; • Pauanui Mountain Estates; • Arcadia Heights; • Pauanui Waterways Stage 2A; and • Lakes Resort. There are also areas not yet subdivided but with development potential, such as: • Glade Holiday Park; • Pauanui Pines Motor Lodge; • Orange Grove; • Parts of Matataki Lodge; • Puka Park Lodge sites; • Pauanui Waterways Stage 3; • The Rural Future Development Policy Area; and • The Industrial Zone around the Transfer Station. It is projected that by 2026, there will be: • 3,671 dwellings in Pauanui (a 91% increase on the 2001 count); • 2,313 usual residents; and • a peak holiday population of almost 25,000. 32
The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
5.6.6 Housing demand and choice
Question 5 of the Community Questionnaire asked respondents, who are not permanent residents
of Pauanui, if they plan to live in the town in the future. Of 657 respondents, 479 (73%) of them said
that they will or may come to live permanently in Pauanui in the future. Of these, 177 said they would
probably come to Pauanui within the next 10 years or when they retire. This is an encouraging trend,
which will serve to increase the permanent resident base of Pauanui. It will be important to respond to
this trend with a range of quality housing choices to meet individual preferences.
In the face of expected significant growth, there is a risk that future growth will ignore the original
form of development or design ethos (for example, residential street layout and design, high levels of
landscaping and open space around dwellings) that has been established within Pauanui. Respondents
to the Community Questionnaire gave resounding support (97%) to retaining existing residential street
and park landscaping in the future development of the township.
5.6.7 Growth Management Concept
In order to protect the character of Pauanui, good planning and growth management will be essential.
The basis for doing this is set out below.
Infill subdivision should be restricted as it is not consistent with community aspirations expressed
through various public workshops and questionnaire processes held in 2004 and 2005. However, it
is acknowledged that some growth would be desirable and could be accommodated, provided that
spatial and landscape values are not compromised. That growth must also be limited in keeping with
infrastructure capacity.
It is proposed to accommodate some population growth by allowing carefully designed, restricted areas
of extra density development while taking a strong stance on protecting the majority of the existing
urban character of single dwellings on residential sites. This is intended to generate a design outcome by
which Pauanui avoids the transitional infill development stage that is currently occurring, for example in
Whangamata, while allowing limited areas of appropriately designed extra density development.
The basic requirements for any extra density development would be for low to medium rise buildings
with low site coverage including a requirement for a large minimum site area. Quality landscaping,
including mature tree planting, would be essential and should be protected (for example through
covenants registered on titles), consent conditions or other methods. The design emphasis should be
on successful establishment and placement of larger specimen trees to mitigate the visual impact of
any buildings higher than the traditional one to two storey private residential dwellings that currently
characterise Pauanui. This would be accompanied by a set of building controls necessary to preserve
daylight and amenity values similar to those existing in Pauanui.
33“Vision Pauanui” 5.6.8 Sustainable urban design The planning concept embodies principles of the New Zealand Urban Design Protocol and signals a commitment to: • quality urban design for Pauanui; • a place that works, a place that is sustainable and successful; • a place that we use and value. The Protocol says that successful towns and cities: • are environmentally responsible – they maintain, celebrate and add to their best environmental attributes; • recognise the role that landscape and the natural environment play in making urban areas great places to live and work; • provide a high quality of life where people choose to live and work; • provide attractive living environments, they offer good leisure and recreational opportunities, and they support a thriving cultural life; and • are livable places and provide choices in housing, work, transport and lifestyle opportunities. A key principle for the success of the planning concept will be for the Council to restrict infill development and ensure that higher density development does not proliferate. District Plan standards will have to be rigorous enough to balance the traditional residential character of one dwelling per section (usually around 600m2) with some quality extra density forms of housing. In effect this will result in a higher proportion of “traditional” one dwelling per residential section development and a low proportion of extra density development. This is intended to allow a mix of living options for the community. A separate public process will need to be carried out after the Community Plan is finalised to ensure that the public have adequate opportunity to provide input into any proposed plan change to the District Plan to allow this. This process should include the development of design guidelines for extra density developments which should be given effect to through the District Plan. 5.6.9 Environmental spatial outcomes There are a number of features of the Pauanui living environment that the community values greatly and that it wishes to see protected in the future. The community has described these values in the form of a number of environmental spatial outcomes (ESO’s) and it wishes to see these embodied in all planning documents including the District Plan. The ESO’s and broad and detailed measures for achieving them are shown in the Table below. 34
The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
Environmental Spatial Outcome (ESO) Broad Measures Detailed Measures
A landscape dominant urban environment Planting Tree types specified.
requirements for Height of trees specified.
developments Use of covenants till maturity.
Promote Pamphlets and promotion of planting.
landscaping by
householders
Zone rules Retain 600m2 minimum site size in
Pauanui Core area to be reconsidered
in 2012 review. Extra Density Policy
Area rules to apply to any extra
density housing. (See 5.6.10.3 below)
A high ratio of open space to site coverage Control site Specify maximum site coverage by
throughout Pauanui coverage zone.
Rules on maximum number of
buildings per site (2) (excluding non-
habitable structures such as garden
sheds and pergolas).
Ensure adequate Reserve contributions for public open
public reserves space.
Building footprint Minimum site size requirement
and bulk does not of approximately 2000m2 for
dominate the site comprehensive developments with
on which it is built. heights above 8 metres.
Restrict infill Infill rules (See 5.6.10.1 below)
development
Preservation of natural environment Minimise runoff Car parking underground for higher
from impervious densities but some parking at ground
areas level where this can be contained
within impervious area allowances.
Specify maximum allowable hard
surfaces including driveways.
Adequate Development Contributions Policy to
infrastructure apply. (See Appendix A)
provision
Minimise sprawl Limit extent of urban development
– urban edge fixed.
Ensure a relationship with sea and estuary Coastal view No high buildings at the coast and
preservation. estuary. Specify and enforce maximum
height in coastal and estuary areas. No
higher than existing District Plan height
limits on coastal fringe properties.
Support with robust policy framework.
Zone rules Beach Amenity Policy Area rules
retained or strengthened.
Ensure hillside backdrop is retained Foothill and ridge No additional zoning or development
preservation potential to be provided on hillsides
or ridges beyond that in the existing
District Plan.
35“Vision Pauanui”
Human safety, privacy and wellbeing Building controls Distance to boundary rules.
Height rules.
Security measures Minimum lighting and design
requirements for footpaths.
Safe easy access Zones or rules allowing amenities and
to amenities and services to be provided.
services Footpaths, underpasses and crossings
provided.
Discourage high Community information pamphlets
fences particularly and promotion.
along walkways
Attractive built environment Good design Design criteria / guidelines in District
Plan.
Ascribe to Encourage good design through
principles of the pamphlets and promotion.
New Zealand District Plan zonings to reflect design
Urban Design principles.
Protocol
Vibrant commercial and tourist economy and Variable density Extra Density Policy Area rules. (See
lifestyle choice options 5.6.10.2 below)
Other zone rules.
Adequate provision Zones or rules allowing commercial
of sites for activities to be provided.
commercial and
tourist activities
Encourage work- No more restrictive rules on home
from-home businesses than currently apply in the
District Plan.
36The Pauanui Community Plan – 2005
5.6.10 Rule changes sought to the District Plan
5.6.10.1 Prevention of infill housing in the Extra Density, Residential and Beach Amenity
Policy Areas
The community wishes the Council, through the Community Board, to prepare changes to the District
Plan that will restrict or avoid infill development in the Residential Policy Area and Beach Amenity Policy
Area, as this form of development is not considered to be an appropriate environmental outcome for
Pauanui. Measures could include but not be limited to:
Matter Applicable rule or measure to achieve
Minimum site area 600m2.
Number of buildings Maximum of one dwelling and one accessory building (garage,
utility or sleepout) per site.
Accessory building to be built accessory to an approved
existing building. Maximum floor area 50m2 for garage and/or
sleepout and 5m2 for a utility.
Define terms “dwelling” and “sleepout” to avoid sleepout
becoming a second dwelling. Use maximum size and number
of building requirements above.
Minimum exclusive area Council’s current proposal to require the proposed second
dwelling on a property to be consistent with sub-division
rules, is supported.
Height and coverage (Residential Policy Area) Maximum site coverage - 35%.
Maximum impervious area - 25%.
Retain current maximum height - 8m or 10m as a Restricted
Discretionary activity.
Retain existing setback rules.
Height and coverage (Beach Amenity Policy Retain current height restrictions but limit buildings to a
Area) maximum two storeys plus a loft.
5.6.10.2 Rule changes for Extra Density Policy Area
The community wishes the Council, through the Community Board, to prepare changes to the District
Plan that will prevent undesirable high-density design outcomes in the Extra Density Policy Areas.
The intention is to allow extra density development in areas already zoned for this purpose but to
review design rules to achieve an improved building form. Such rules would allow a low-rise height
component (15 metres maximum) but require a high ratio of surrounding open space and tree planting.
This form of development would be in contrast to other extra density forms of development with, for
example, lower buildings with high site coverage.
The proposed rule changes should not alter the minimum density or yield possible in the existing
Extra Density Policy Areas. However, the new rules would refer to the form of construction and layout.
Measures could include but not be limited to:
37“Vision Pauanui”
Matter Applicable rule or measure to achieve
Minimum gross site area Not less than 2000m2.
Height and coverage Maximum site coverage 25% - building footprint only.
Maximum impervious area – suggested 50%, including building
footprint, driveways, swimming pools and decks within 1m of
the ground.a
Maximum height up to 12m (may be bonus of extra 1.5m for
non habitable roof space allowing for improved roof design).
Parking Minimum of two car parks per unit. Parking underground initially
but some ground level parking allowed provided that the 50%
impervious area is not exceeded.
No ground floor parking permitted in the building. Visitor
parking provided at ground level at one space per 0.2 Floor
Area Ratio (FAR).
Daylight angle 3m high at boundary and 45° angle (to preserve reasonable
light).
Centralised siting requirement and Introduce a rule to ensure the building is set back evenly from
distance between buildings all site boundaries with building yard requirements specified
to achieve this. Variations in yard requirements to require
Restricted Discretionary consent as opposed to Controlled
Activity consent. 15m minimum distance between buildings on
the site.
Landscaping Introduce rules requiring a minimum level of landscaping and
tree planting to be installed with every new development.
Units per floor Maximum of three units per floor with no unit less than 75m2 in
area and with no three-bedroom unit smaller than 100m2.
Design Introduce rules requiring minimum stud heights, fencing
standards, privacy aspects and façade design, and introduce
design guidelines.
5.6.10.3 Extra densities in the Pauanui Core Residential Policy Area
In addition to extra density development already provided for in the existing Extra Density Policy Areas,
the planning concept could allow controlled extra density development in the Pauanui Core Residential
Policy Area provided that:
• The activity is a Discretionary Activity under the District Plan rules;
• The Council retains a wide discretion to refuse an application for extra density developments;
• The rules set out in the table below are applied; and
• Any application for such development is required to be notified under rules in the District Plan.
This is to ensure that any extra density development applications made within the Pauanui Core
Residential Policy Area are accorded high level scrutiny, resulting in only quality developments being
consented in strict compliance with rules.
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