Outdoor Recreation Strategy Palmerston North City Council

Transcription

1 Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2002 Palmerston North City Council

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3 1} Table of Contents PART A : DRAFT OUTDOOR RECREATION STRATEGY Executive Summary 4 1 Introduction 4 2 The Issues for Palmerston North 4 3 Consultation 5 4 Draft Outdoor Recreation Strategy 6 5 Kahuterawa / Turitea Valley Outdoor Recreation Hub 6 Objective One 6 Policies 6 Recommended Methods of Implementation 7 6 Tracks 8 Objective Two 8 Policies 8 Recommended Methods of Implementation 9 7 Access to Rivers 10 Objective Three 10 Policy 10 Recommended Methods of Implementation 10 8 Enhanced Road End and Picnic Facilities 11 Objective Four 11 Policies 12 Recommended Methods of Implementation 12 9 Improved Information Provision about Outdoor Recreation Opportunities and Partnerships with Community Groups 13 Objective Five 13 Policies 13 Recommended methods of Implementation Review of Strategy 14 Policy 14 PART B: BACKGROUND INFORMATION 11 Introduction Links with other Council Plans 16 Strategic Plan & Annual Plan 16 Recreation Plan 16 The PNCC District Plan 16

4 2} Reserve management plans 16 horizons.mw Policy Statement and Plans Palmerston North Population and Resource Use 18 National Trends and Demands 19 Maori Participation in Outdoor Recreation Description and Values of Main Outdoor Recreation Resources in Palmerston North 23 The Sledge Track and the Back Track 26 Turitea Valley 28 Manawatu River Opportunities for new development Issues for consideration 33 Clustering 33 Tracks 34 Unformed legal roads 34 Facility Information 35 Community Involvement 35 Track Classification 36 Conflict Management 36 Physical Responses 37 Management Responses Conclusion 39 APPENDIX ONE: MAP OF PNCC AREA 40 APPENDIX TWO: CONSULTATION 42 REFERENCES 51

5 3} Executive Summary Currently the population of Palmerston North uses a range of areas for outdoor recreation purposes, both within the territorial authority boundary and in the surrounding region. Many areas are used by a range of different groups leading to positive results such as camaraderie and shared experiences, but also can lead to conflicts and tensions between users. With the Council s aim to have a population of 85,000 in the next ten years, which matches the estimated population projection for the year 2011, it is clear that further facilities for outdoor recreation will be reuired and existing facilities modified or adapted where reuired. Through consultation with user groups, and desktop research, five priority areas have been identified, and subseuently form the basis of the Outdoor Recreation Strategy as contained in Part A of this document. Those five priority areas are: Establishment of an outdoor recreation hub in the Kahuterawa Valley; Tracks; River Access; Enhanced Road End and Picnic Facilities; and Improved Information About Recreation Opportunities The Outdoor Recreation Strategy represents the basic means by which the Palmerston North City Council will determine its priorities and guidelines for the provision of outdoor recreation services within the City. The document is not intended as a detailed outline of specific projects, but rather a guide to the process by which development or improvements can occur. However, time framed recommended actions for achieving goals relating to outdoor recreation have been included in the Strategy. Part B sets out the background to the strategy, including details of consultation. It includes a description of the existing outdoor recreation facilities within Palmerston North together with demographic information. It also identifies opportunities for further development.

6 4} Part A. Outdoor Recreation Strategy for Palmerston North 1 Introduction 1.1 The Palmerston North City Council s vision states that Together we will make Palmerston North an exciting City in which to live, learn, work and play The outdoor recreation strategy attempts to consolidate and clarify the role of the Palmerston North City Council in the delivery of outdoor recreation services. The Strategy aims to provide direction for recreation provision for Palmerston North City Council, both on a short and long term basis. It is not intended as a detailed outline of specific projects, but rather a guide to the process by which development or improvements can occur. 1.3 Part A of this document sets out the Outdoor Recreation Strategy for Palmerston North. Five aspects of outdoor recreation have been identified, including the need to cluster activities in the Kahuterawa Valley, as well as the more generic aspects such as facility provision and information distribution. For each aspect of the Strategy objectives and policies have been identified, as well as recommended methods of implementation to achieve the desired outcomes. 1.4 Part B of this document identifies existing and potential outdoor recreation opportunities and facilities, and looks at the trends and issues that may impact on the future provision of outdoor recreation services. 2 The Issues for Palmerston North City 2.1 Palmerston North City has a number of areas available for outdoor recreation activities, and is in close proximity to other facilities in the surrounding region, which are outside the control of the Palmerston North City Council. (Refer Appendix 1 Map showing PNCC boundary). 2.2 Existing outdoor recreation facilities lie predominantly within the Kahuterawa Valley, the Turitea Valley, and along the Manawatu River. 2.3 The main issues relating to outdoor recreation in Palmerston North are: The need to develop new and existing outdoor recreation facilities in order to address existing demand. The need for car parking and other amenities at existing facilities. Conflict between users, which is diminishing people s experiences. Signage and interpretation of information both on and off site. Tourism potential and pressure of outdoor recreation from any increase in Tourism. 1 PNCC (2000) Our City s Environment 2000 The State of Environment Report.

7 5} 2.4 The Council has a leadership role in maximising opportunities for the diversity of outdoor recreational activities available to the community. It endeavours to provide appropriate recreation facilities based on user demand and the City s natural opportunities - rather than to manufacture recreation opportunities to suit present demand (which may be harmful to the environment and only of fleeting interest). 2.5 This philosophy is aimed at a balanced approach, working toward emphasising the city s natural strengths but keeping aware of people s changing demands. It is also in tune with Council s current Recreation Plan. 2.6 The aim should be to build up a good long-term supply of uality recreational products and provide much of what visitors desire (but not necessarily all). When demands cannot be met due to natural resource limitations, Council should supply information about alternatives (if available). In Palmerston North the rivers and streams are a particular strength. Water-based and water associated recreation opportunities should therefore be promoted. Forest based recreation activities are also becoming increasingly popular. 2.7 The New Zealand Tourism Strategy 2010 aims to manage a massive increase in overseas tourist visitor numbers. Tourism has grown 85% over the 10 years , to 1.8 million visitors in This growth is expected to increase at a similar rate in the near future. There is a possibility that New Zealand s traditional tourism centres will not be able to cope with this demand and that other centres such as the City of Palmerston North may have the potential to attract visitors. 3 Consultation 3.1 In order to collect base level information about outdoor recreation, focus group meetings were arranged and attended by key recreation user groups, and the Department of Conservation, refer Appendix 2 - Consultation. Some invited stakeholder groups were not able to attend the focus group meetings, and feedback / survey forms were distributed to provide another opportunity for input into the project. 3.2 These focus group meetings were arranged to include groups and organisations with similar interests to facilitate good information flow and to avoid and address conflict between groups. 3.3 Responses from the various user groups showed that a wide variety of locations are used for outdoor recreation purposes from established tracks to gravel roads. The responses from the user groups have been grouped into three categories Walkers, trampers and other recreation user groups, Mountain Biking and Cycling groups and Motorised Vehicle groups. Throughout Part B of this report the responses have been summarised in table format. The responses show there is a great deal of overlap between users in terms of both the areas they use and the reasons why they use those areas. For example all three categories of user groups listed the level of wilderness/remoteness as a reason for undertaking an activity in that location. Conflicts between users were raised by all three categories of user groups as an issue impacting on their enjoyment of a site. The main improvements sought by users were better information and signage, as well as upgraded facilities on site (such as toilet and water provision).

8 6} 4 Outdoor Recreation Strategy 4.1 This draft Outdoor Recreation Strategy is based on consultation with user groups and desktop research. There are five priority areas that this strategy seeks to address. These are: Establishment of an outdoor recreation hub in the Kahuterawa Valley; Tracks; River Access; Enhanced Road End and Picnic Facilities; and Improved Information About Recreation Opportunities 4.2 The goal of the Strategy is to secure community and user group feedback pertaining to outdoor recreation services, facilities, programmes and projects, and to promote partnerships, encouraging their input and participation in the recreation planning process. 4.3 Set out below are the objectives (goals) for each of the five priority areas for outdoor recreation in Palmerston North. Policies setting out generic courses of action as to how the objectives are to be achieved have also been identified, and finally detailed recommended methods for achieving each objective are listed. The detailed methods for achieving each goal have been sorted into categories of high, medium and low priority. This indicates a timeframe within which the Council can operate, whereby high priority indicates within the immediate future, and low priority indicates that the action should occur in the next five years. Priority level has been determined by the importance placed on the activity by respondents to consultation, and by considering timeframes reuired for specific works. Funding reuirements to action each category are dependant on the LTFS and future Annual Plans. 5 Kahuterawa Valley Outdoor Recreation Hub 5.1 Seventeen kilometres from the City centre, the Kahuterawa Valley extends from near the Manawatu River up to the Turitea Water Reserve. In its entirety, the Kahuterawa Valley area offers a range of scenic, botanical and recreational values. (Refer also to Part B, section 14). 5.2 At the head of the Valley are a number of existing tracks and recreational areas. A carpark, toilet and picnic facilities were developed and constructed in June Given the use and demand for the area by users, it is considered appropriate to concentrate and enhance facilities in this area. Objective One To develop the Kahuterawa Valley as an Outdoor Recreation Hub Policies 1.1 To develop the Kahuterawa Valley as the main access point for the Kahuterawa Valley Outdoor Recreation Hub.

9 7} 1.2 To establish the Kahuterawa Valley Outdoor Recreation Hub by clustering multiuse tracks and facilities in this area. 1.3 To establish further scenic reserves in the Kahuterawa Valley Outdoor Recreation Hub. 1.4 To develop the character of the Kahuterawa Valley Outdoor Recreation Hub, and increase public perception and use of the Hub. 1.5 To mitigate conflict between users of the outdoor recreation facilities. Recommended Methods of Implementation High Priority: (a) (b) (c) (d) To re-brand the Kahuterawa Valley Outdoor Recreation Hub, and develop formal names for the existing facilities in the area. The present names they are known by include: The Sledge Track - a track in the Black Bridge area beyond Kahuterawa Valley Road, heading in a southerly direction from Black Bridge and following the Kahuterawa Stream up to Hardings Park. The Back Track - a track branching to the west from the bridge to the end of Scotts Road. The Kahuterawa Loop Tracks - tracks through the privately owned Kahuterawa Forest Block, linking the Back Track and Kahuterawa Road. Provide signage and interpretation including: Consistent signage reflecting the existing Council signs policy A notice board at the Kahuterawa Road end (perhaps located nearby the carpark and toilet that was developed in June 2002 at the end of Kahuterawa Road). Differentiation of tracks for different users. To investigate measures to mitigate conflict between users of outdoor recreation facilities, by: continuing the access permit system for Mountain Bikers, Four Wheel Drivers, and other appropriate groups for recreational use of the Gordon Kear Forest; and investigating other locations where the system would resolve conflict, and evaluate through surveys and other means whether it is assisting to mitigate conflict between users. Medium Priority To classify unformed portions of Kahuterawa Road (known as the Sledge Track and the Back Track ) as Reserve under the administration of Palmerston North City Council, and to investigate other opportunities for outdoor recreation. And To initiate a Variation to the Palmerston North District Plan to rezone the land from its current use as road to a more sympathetic zoning that reflects the recreational use and facilities in this area, e.g. Recreation or Conservation and Amenity.

10 8} (e) To ensure that management work on facilities occurs as a partnership between Council and user group contributions (including working bees). Low Priority (f) (g) Promote formed legal roads for horse, bicycle and pedestrian use, such as Greens Road, Scotts Road, South Range Road and Turitea Road, as areas of high amenity suitable for some forms of outdoor recreation. This will include interpretation and signage. To investigate opportunities available with Brown House administrators eg. low impact users such as school groups. 6 Tracks 6.1 The Palmerston North City Council administers a network of tracks and walkways throughout the district. A survey undertaken by the Hillary Commission (1997) shows that within the Taranaki/Wanganui/Manawatu area, walking is one of the top five activities for both men and women. There are a range of walkways in and around Palmerston North ranging from the more urban River Line walkway, to the more remote Sledge Track and Back Track. 6.2 The Council receives numerous reuests for track development and up-grade of its tracks. Development and up-grade reuires capital funding from Council or funding from an outside source such as voluntary labour, or sponsored materials, or a mix of resources. Any development or up-grade to a track needs maintenance to retain its structures, maintain the track surface and clear vegetation. It should be noted that in some circumstances tracks can degrade the natural environment and open up the bush environment to weed infestation if not managed appropriately. 6.3 The management of reuests for permission for groups to develop tracks on various reserves is therefore a key issue. Policy and criteria are outlined in this document. They are based on the premise that unless a track development project is listed as a priority in this strategy, it is not a priority for the City as a whole. It is proposed to allow groups to develop tracks on Council land provided that they agree to the following conditions: they agree to all asset maintenance and management for five years or until the next review of the Outdoor Recreation Strategy or minor policy amendment; Palmerston North City Council specified signs are installed and maintained; and the track meets Council design guidelines. This means that should a group no longer want to continue to manage a track, Council is under no obligation to continue to manage the track. These agreements can be reviewed with each review of this Strategy. Objective Two To manage existing tracks and to provide new tracks and facilities to meet the leisure needs of the community. Policies 2.1 To investigate opportunities for track development to reduce congestion on existing facilities.

11 9} 2.2 To investigate and implement techniues to mitigate conflict on tracks 2.3 To investigate recreational uses when considering applications for closure of unformed legal roads. 2.4 To monitor changes to the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 for implications and impacts on tracks in work places. Recommended Methods of Implementation High Priority (a) (b) To extend multi-use tracks and public access along: Where: the Kahuterawa Stream (from the Manawatu River to the Kahuterawa car park) the Pohangina River (from the Ashhurst Domain to Saddle Road); the Mangaone Stream (from the Manawatu River to Pioneer Highway and from Flygers Line to Setters Line); and other suitable locations Emphasis will be placed on additional track and facility development in the Kahuterawa Outdoor Recreation Hub; along the Manawatu River, Pohangina River, Mangaone Stream, Kahuterawa Stream and the Turitea Stream. Emphasis is placed on enabling access to points of major natural or scenic interest. Priority will be given to tracks that form a loop. This may include development of a loop, which incorporates use of an existing legal road. Tracks will be designed to enhance linkages of reserves, existing roads / track networks and riparian/esplanade reserves. Multi-use tracks and facilities will be prioritised Track development will need to be consistent with environmental education initiatives and the purpose for which land areas are held in Council ownership. To adopt and implement a track classification system for use on all Palmerston North City Council tracks and for associated interpretation and signage. Medium Priority (c) (d) To use track counters to monitor usage patterns on tracks. To encourage the Back Track Management Committee to continue administering the Back Track and Sledge Track. Ensure participation on the group by all interested stakeholders. Where possible and beneficial administer future tracks in Hardings Park. Task the group with the development of a planting, maintenance and usage plan for these areas where appropriate.

12 10} Low Priority (e) (f) (g) (h) To consider track developments on Council land by other groups (at the discretion of Council) on a case-by-case basis. To use legal easements where possible to secure permanent access. Agreements will allow for practical issues with owning land, such as the need for closure during lambing. Access to tracks by adjoining landowners for operational matters will be permitted where practicable, provided that the track is reinstated to its original condition at no cost to Council. Esplanade strips can often serve a similar purpose, as reuired under the Palmerston North City District Plan. Promote increased use of the Sledge Track for suitably experienced users including: Upgrading of the track to the Department of Conservation (or similar) Backcountry track standard eg. Back Country Adventure (BCA). Appropriate signage and interpretation to explain the historical development of the track, the types of activities appropriate to the track and the level of experience reuired. Emphasis on development of the Sledge Track as a loop Consideration of extending the Sledge Track to reinstate the path of the old Maori Track, providing access to the north Tararua Ranges and across to Pahiatua. This will need to be undertaken in partnership with Tararua District Council, and may reuire advice from the Department of Conservation. As subdivision permits the existing walkway system will be linked up with Moonshine Valley or the Pahiatua Track. 7 Access to Rivers 7.1 Maintaining and enhancing public access to and along rivers and lakes is a matter of national importance, as set out in Section 6 of the Resource Management Act Access to rivers and streams is important to the Fish and Game Council, Freshwater Anglers Clubs and individual recreational users. Objective Three To maintain and enhance public access to and along rivers. Policy 3.1 To develop multi-use tracks and outdoor recreation opportunities providing access along the length of the Manawatu River between the Palmerston North urban area and the Ashhurst Domain. Recommended Methods of Implementation High Priority

13 11} (a) (b) Continue the acuisition of Esplanade Reserves and/or strips, to allow extension of the bridle track to link the Palmerston North urban area with the Ashhurst Domain on the bank of the Manawatu River. Purchase / acuire esplanade reserves on the edge of rivers and streams when considering any applications for rural subdivision in these areas (consistent with Objective 4 and Policy 4.2 of the Palmerston North District Plan (Chapter 7)), or any subseuent amendment to this chapter. Medium Priority (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) Undertake consultation with relevant parties in consideration of the extension of the Bridle Track downstream from the Fitzherbert Bridge to the Linton Army Camp boundary on the Massey Side of the Manawatu River (at the confluence of the Turitea Stream and the Manawatu River). Extend a multi-use bridle track from the Ashhurst Domain on the left side of the Manawatu River (looking upstream) to the city boundary at Saddle Road / McCraes Bush. Extend the Mangaone Walkway from Flygers Line to Setters Line along the Mangaone Stream to provide an interesting walking opportunity around the proposed airport extension. Options to develop a loop within the Hardings Park portion of the Turitea Water Supply Reserve should be explored. Develop a multi-use bridle track to link the Manawatu River with the Kahuterawa Outdoor Recreation Hub. Specifically this may include a track from the end of Hewitts Road to the end of the formation of Kahuterawa Road by Black Bridge (via Kahuterawa Reserve). Low Priority (h) (i) (j) To establish kayak/canoe put-in/pull-out river access. Extend the Mangaone Walkway from the Race Course to the confluence of the Mangaone Stream with the Manawatu River, once closure and reinstatement of the landfill has occurred. Negotiate easements over private land to assist with extending riparian access to Rivers. 8 Enhanced Road End and Picnic Facilities 8.1 Given the demand for low impact opportunities, as indicated by user groups (refer Appendix 2 Consultation), it is considered appropriate to establish facilities at road ends, on forest fringes and in other natural settings adjoining water or with good viewpoints. Objective Four To develop an increased range of road end and picnic facilities, focussing on forest fringe, semi-natural settings, with good facilities for picnicking, camping and short walks.

14 12} Policies 4.1 To establish new facilities such as picnic tables, seats, rubbish bins, signage, kayak and/or canoe put-in/pull-out river access and shelters, to reduce congestion on the existing facilities. Priority will be given to additional facility development in existing Council reserves and along the Manawatu River, Kahuterawa Stream, Turitea Stream, Mangaone Stream and the Pohangina River. 4.2 To establish new facilities at points of major interest including hill tops, historic sites, cliff edges, scenic views, and rivers. Recommended Methods of Implementation High Priority (a) Prioritise access opportunities to beaches on the Manawatu River particularly road end access where possible. Medium Priority (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) (i) (j) Develop Education Super Site facilities, such as a short educational walking opportunities and interpretation at Tutukiwi Reserve and Brown House. Develop road end facilities along the length of the Manawatu River between the existing urban area and the Ashhurst Domain/Manawatu Gorge Walking Track so that the walkway is delineated into easily walkable sections. Develop road end facilities at Petersons, Ors, Staces Roads (Manawatu River north of the City) to provide access to the Bridal Track extension. Develop road end facilities at Akers Road, Eyre Road and Ballance Street via Whitmore Road (Manawatu River south of the City) to provide isolated river access for picnicking. Develop road end facilities at Saddle Road, and off River Road in Ashhurst to relieve pressure on the existing facilities at the Ashhurst Domain. These would also facilitate extension of a walking track to the city boundary from Ashhurst. Develop a road end facility off Pioneer Highway at the intersection of the road and the Mangaone Stream as a gateway for the Mangaone Stream Walkway. Development of road end / picnic facilities at Flygers, Milson and Setters Lines to increased use of a Mangaone Walkway extension. Development of picnic facilities and walkway entry facilities on Turitea Road (upstream of Harts Road); Old West Road (where the Turitea Walkway crosses Old West Road). Develop a road end / picnic facility at the end of Hewitts Road as a start/end point for a walking link to the Kahuterawa Loop Track. Low Priority (k) Investigate extension of Totara Road and investigate development of a road end facility to facilitate access to the Manawatu River and Mangaone Stream via the rehabilitated landfill once closure and reinstatement has occurred.

15 13} 9 Improved Information Provision about Outdoor Recreation Opportunities and Partnerships with Community Groups 9.1 User groups have highlighted concerns about the lack of user information both on and off sites used for outdoor recreation, (refer Appendix 2 Consultation). 9.2 Furthermore, physical on-site information together with education and off-site information (e.g. brochures) are essential to mitigate conflict between users. Objective Five To enable effective and efficient use and development of outdoor recreation facilities in Palmerston North and in the immediate surrounding area through information transfer and distribution. Policies 5.1 To support the development of local education sites to compliment the proposed Department of Conservation Super Sites at the Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve and Sixtus Lodge (in Ruahine Forest Conservation Area). 5.2 To provide signage and interpretation in accordance with the Council signs policy at all road end facilities and on all tracks. 5.3 To include within asset management plans on and off-site information for up-grade and development of recreational areas to improve the service to users. 5.4 To improve access to information on outdoor recreation opportunities in Palmerston North City. 5.5 To encourage the formation of community / stakeholder groups to manage outdoor recreation areas and assist with maintenance and upgrade work. 5.6 To ensure agreements are in place between Council and appropriate parties when there is community/voluntary involvement in a development or maintenance project in order to meet Council s OSH obligations. Recommended methods of Implementation High Priority (a) Identify what signs/information boards are located at existing outdoor recreation facilities, and prioritise where further signs/information boards are needed, and site new signs/information boards as necessary. (b) Produce information brochures on outdoor recreation opportunities. These brochures should: Identify opportunities and facilities in Palmerston North City: Two separate brochures should be developed, dealing separately with opportunities at the Kahuterawa outdoor recreation hub, and access to rivers and streams in the City.

16 14} The brochures should include a map of the City with key landmarks and access routes identified to allow for easy orientation. Maps should identify road end facilities, tracks and other amenities. The brochure should identify key features of interest, provide some interpretative information about recreation opportunities and provide contextual information on the type of experiences available and the standard of facilities. Medium Priority (c) Identify opportunities and facilities in the immediate surrounding region in conjunction with organisations such as Destination Manawatu and the Department of Conservation, to develop: One broad-brush pamphlet, providing information on outdoor recreation facilities and opportunities available in the immediate surrounding region. The brochure should include a map of the surrounding region with key landmarks and access routes identified to allow for easy orientation. Maps identifying road end facilities, tracks and other amenities. Low Priority (d) (e) To facilitate regular meetings of users to exchange information. To make resources available for signage and other information to manage user behaviour on tracks on private land and Council owned land. 10 Review of Strategy Policy 10.1 To review the Outdoor Recreation Strategy five years from its date of adoption The review may only reuire minor changes to the contextual component of Strategy, and may not be a complete re-write. The level of review reuired should be assessed after four years from the date of adoption to allow for an appropriate programme to go to the draft Annual Plan.

17 15} Part B. Background Information 11 Introduction 11.1 This Outdoor Recreation Strategy focuses on the active outdoor recreation component of the PNCC s responsibilities. This section sets out the existing use and supply of outdoor recreation facilities in the area, and looks at the opportunities for new development, as wells as the demands expressed by users. From this analysis, the strategy as set out in Part A has been determined There has been a realisation for some time that Palmerston North City Council need to further their understanding of its role in outdoor recreation. The scope of outdoor recreation can include a number of activities both passive and active. There has been much discussion about these activities, which are predominantly focused on natural settings in the unmodified environment. These include but are by no means limited to: Walking, tramping, mountain-biking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hunting, shooting, caving, jet boating, horse trekking, orienteering, motorbike riding, picnicking, rafting, sightseeing, abseiling, bird watching 11.3 Outdoor recreation is central to Council s role in promoting the well-being of people and communities in Palmerston North. There are inherent benefits derived from participation in outdoor recreation, however these can often be difficult to measure uantitatively The benefits of outdoor recreation can be divided into individual user and community benefits. Particular benefits may relate more specifically to one type of facility than others (e.g. parks and visual amenity), but most are generally applicable to all recreation facilities, refer Table 1. Table 1 Private vs Community Benefits of Outdoor Recreation Individual (user) benefits Community Benefits Visual amenity Visual amenity Individual health and fitness Conservation and preservation Participation in community life Environmental health Self esteem and confidence Community health Enjoyment City image Entertainment Community identity Self-improvement Pride in the City as a place to live, work and play Sense of achievement Attracting visitors, new residents and businesses Development of personal interests Availability and choice (option value) Skills development

18 16} 12 Links with other Council Plans Strategic Plan & Annual Plan 12.1 The Strategic Plan sets out the Council s proposed strategic direction for the next ten years. It is designed to enhance the strengths of the City and to address its weaknesses. The Draft Annual Plan, which incorporates the Strategic Plan, and the Long Term Financial Strategy, has set a challenging target of building the size of the City to 85,000 people in the next ten years It would be difficult to uantitatively define the portion of expenditure on outdoor recreation, however the Annual Plan 2002/2003 has set aside $4,605,000 for Recreational Facilities, and a further $208,000 for public toilets. Recreation Plan (1998) 12.3 Palmerston North City Council s Recreation Plan sets out the Council s vision for recreation. The key impetus behind the Plan is the City Vision, which aims to make Palmerston North and exciting City in which to live learn, work and plan. The Recreation Plan focuses on the to play element of the vision, and sets out goals, strategies and associated actions for a five year period. It encompasses both indoor and outdoor recreation facilities, ranging from the small neighbourhood parks to the multi-faceted Arena Manawatu complex. The PNCC District Plan ( Variations) 12.4 The Palmerston North City Council District Plan, adopted in December 2000, sets out the framework within which the community can develop in a sustainable manner. It controls the effects of the use, development and protection of land. The Council recognises that recreation is important for many residents, and that it is a significant contributor to the uality of life and level of physical, social and cultural well-being that people within the City experience Within the District Plan, recreation reserves have been classified into five distinct zones to facilitate their management and development, and to ensure any adverse effects are appropriately managed. Three of these are particularly relevant to the Outdoor Recreation Strategy the Recreation Zone, the Conservation and Amenity Zone, and the Water Recreation Zone Other zones within which outdoor recreation is particularly appropriate are the Rural Zone and the Flood Protection Zone It has been identified that many of the City s reserves would benefit from a zoning change that is relative to their current use. This may involve a reasonable cost, although could be considered in future Annual Plan rounds. Reserve Management Plans 12.8 Reserve Management Plans are reuired to be prepared for all reserves, pursuant to the Reserves Act Each reserve must be classified according to their principal purpose, and management plans are subseuently reuired to be developed Palmerston North City Council has developed a zoning strategy to complement the preparation of reserve management plans Palmerston North City Council are currently in process of completing a Generic Reserve Management Plan. This plan will include a number of policy headings under

19 17} which policies will be written for. It will cover all reserves that do not have an individual reserve management plan until such time as an individual management plan is written and adopted for them. Turitea Reserve Management Plan The Water and Waste section of the City Networks Unit is currently in the process of preparing a reserve management plan for Turitea Reserve. The Hardings Park area of this reserve has recently been classified Scenic Reserve, which has the effect of bringing this portion of the reserve under the Reserves Act Hardings Park is 869ha and the draft Turitea Reserve Management Plan has the following primary objectives: Manage for intrinsic worth and for the benefit, enjoyment and use of the public. Preserve indigenous flora and fauna, biological association and the natural environment as far as possible. Exterminate exotic flora and fauna as far as possible Allow the public freedom of entry and access subject to conditions and restrictions necessary for the protection of the reserve and for the protection and control of the public using it. And the following secondary objectives: Develop open portions for amenities and facilities where there are necessary to enable the public to obtain benefit and enjoyment from the reserve. Manage and protect historic, archaeological, geological, biological and other scientific features Hardings Park presents some fantastic outdoor recreation opportunities and possible future track development. horizons.mw Policy Statement and Plans horizons.mw is the trading name for the Regional Council for the Manawatu-Wanganui Region The RMA reuires the policies of the District Plan to be consistent with those contained within the Regional Policy Statement a document promoting the sustainable management of natural and physical resources Although this strategy focuses on facilitating recreation opportunity, rather than addressing recreation impacts on the environment, there are a number of biophysical and ecological impacts of recreation primarily related to changes in soils and plant communities. Impacts from recreationists include removal of plant cover, reduction in species diversity, displacement and rearrangement in community structure, reduced productivity, alteration to soil properties, and increased barren and eroded surfaces. These kinds of effects are controlled by way of Regional Plans Regional Plans adopted by horizons.mw include the Manawatu Catchment Water Quality Plan and the Regional Plan for Beds of Rivers and Lakes and Associated Activities. The Proposed Regional Land and Water Plan is not yet adopted.

20 18} 13 Palmerston North Population and Resource Use 13.1 Palmerston North is a City with a long history of steady growth, with the total population having grown in every census period since records began. In recent years growth has slowed to just under 1% per year. Population composition is however an important consideration in terms of outdoor recreation. The presence of UCOL, Massey University, the International Pacific College and Linton Army Camp means that there is a high proportion of young people in the city The 2001 Census of Population and Dwellings 2 shows that the total population in 2001 was 75,200 (Usually Resident Population Count). That breakdown of the population, (from the 2001 Census), shows that year olds comprised the biggest group, refer Figure 1. 4,000 Figure 1: Age Group by Sex for Usually Resident Population in Palmerston North ,000 Population 2,000 1,000 - Male Female 0-4 Years 5-9 Years Years Years Years Years Years Years Years Years Age Years Years Years Years Years Years Years 85 Years and Over (Source: 2001 Census, Regional Summary; Statistics New Zealand) 13.3 Using the 2001 population as a base, it is estimated that the population of Palmerston North will increase by up to 25% by the year 2021, refer Table 2. 2 Statistics NZ (2001) 2001 Census of Population and Dwellings.

21 19} Table 2 Projected Resident Population Palmerston North City Territorial Authority 1996 (Base) 2021 Variant Year as at 30 June Change (base) Number Percent High Medium Low (Source: 1996 Census, Regional Summary; Statistics New Zealand) 13.4 The Push Play Facts for Taranaki, Wanganui and Manawatu 3 show that participation in sport and active leisure is high. The top five activities for people living in Taranaki, Wanganui and Manawatu, are shown in Table 3. Table 3 Top five physical activities for adults in Taranaki, Wanganui and Manawatu Men Women Activity T/W/M (%) NZ (%) Activity T/W/M (%) NZ (%) Gardening Walking Walking Gardening Fishing Swimming Swimming Exercising at home Running/Jogging Aerobics Source: Hillary Commission (1997) Push Play Facts for Taranaki, Wanganui and Manawatu) National Trends and Demands 13.5 An understanding of use and users of outdoor recreation resources is fundamental to many aspects of management of these areas The increasing numbers of outdoor recreationists and increasing diversity in the nature of this use is now creating pressures on outdoor recreation areas. Many studies of demand in New Zealand have focussed on participation which can be observed and readily measured, fewer studies have given attention to demand, which although desired, has not been realised About 85% of New Zealanders are involved in walking as a recreational physical activity at least once a month (the average is nearly twice a week). The backcountry boom in New Zealand is clear from the trends in use for protected natural and recreation areas. Davison (1986) notes use increases in key protected natural areas of up to 300%, or at least doubling during Unfortunately no comprehensive review of use trends has been undertaken in the sixteen years since Davison s 1986 work. However, comparison with recent statistics suggests that use has continued to increase in key areas. 3 Hillary Commission (1997) Push Play Facts for Taranaki, Wanganui and Manawatu.

22 20} 13.8 Household participation surveys offer further data about the use of parks and reserves, reflecting the population s use of outdoor recreation resources. Several studies have specifically addressed the public s use of different park systems. From samples Murphy (1981) concluded that half of all New Zealanders visit a forest for recreation purposes in a given year Population based studies suggest that activities which receive high rates of participation (or are ranked as popular), are predominately sedentary, reuiring low levels of physical exertion. These activities are usually engaged in close to home, reuiring little formal organisation or use of publicly provided facilities, as specialised skill is often not a prereuisite (Laidler and Cushman 1993) A recent outdoor leisure activities participation study (MRL Research Group 1994) showed that walking was the most common outdoor activity respondents had participated in, and activities that reuired greater effort and time commitments had lower than average participation The most popular recreational settings for outdoor recreation are beaches and oceans (79%), lakes and rivers (50%), farmland (46%), forests (38%) and mountains (26%) (Murphy 1981). An update of this information in 1991 for Rotorua and Christchurch residents shows no statistically significant shifts from this general picture (Smith 1991) Overseas research suggests that the keen walkers and bikers use tracks freuently, while the majority of the population do not use the tracks. The latest Hillary Commission research shows that walking is very popular, although cycling is also important. Table 4 shows the top 10 sports and physical activities for people of different ages, while Table 5 shows the top 10 sports and physical activities for men and women. Table 4 Top 10 sports and physical activities for people of different ages Years Years Years 50 + Years Swimming (45 %) Gardening (45 %) Gardening (58 %) Gardening (67 %) Exercise classes/gym (34 %) Short walks (38 %) Short walks (41 %) Long walks (39 %) Short walks (32 %) Swimming (36 %) Long walks (38 %) Short walks (36 %) Exercising at home (32 %) Long walks (35 %) Exercising at home (31 %) Exercising at home (21 %) Long walks (29 %) Exercising at home (34 %) Swimming (30 %) Swimming (17 %) Touch (29 %) Exercise classes/gym (25 %) Cycling (19 %) Golf (14 %) Gardening (27 %) Cycling (21 %) Exercise classes/gym (17 %) Bowls - lawn (9 %) Cycling (28 %) Running/jogging (20 %) Golf (16 %) Bowls - indoor (9 %) Running/jogging (27 %) Aerobics (17 %) Running/jogging (16 %) Tramping (8 %) Aerobics (26 %) Golf (16 %) Tennis (14 %) Cycling (6 %) (Source: Hillary Commission) The importance of walking might suggest the need for more walking tracks, rather than the emphasis on multi-use tracks in this strategy. However, as the discussion on conflict notes, more single use (walking) tracks will not necessarily help people to have an enjoyable experience, as bikers are likely to use them anyway, as they seek similar track experiences to other users - peacefulness, scenery, vegetation, socialising. Thus, promoting and advising users that tracks are multi-use will assist their experience and should lessen the conflict felt because visitors will be more informed and less likely to be surprised about a bike.

23 21} Table 5 Top 10 Sports and Physical Activities for Men and Women Men Woman Gardening (44 %) Gardening (44 %) Short walks (29 %) Short walks (29 %) Long walks (29 %) Long walks (29 %) Swimming (26 %) Exercising at home (24 %) Golf (25 %) Swimming (26 %) Exercising at home (24 %) Aerobics (20 %) Running/jogging (19 %) Exercise classes/gym (16 %) Cycling (18 %) Cycling (18 %) Exercise classes/gym (16 %) Netball (11 %) Touch (14 %) Tramping (10 %) (Source: Hillary Commission) A 1995 review of outdoor recreation in New Zealand by the Department of Conservation and Lincoln University (Devlin et al, 1995) noted that people were attempting more activities of shorter durations, as a variety of experiences were sought from single locations. This has made it difficult to label recreationists who may be a tramper one day and a mountain biker the next, or tramper and mountain biker on the same day. As recreationists diversified their activities and settings, increasing specialisations was also apparent, such as sea, white water, or flat water kayaking. These activities are also becoming less structured and more individual The same review also drew conclusions of the demographic background of outdoor recreation people. Active pursuits attracted younger people, while more passive activity had appeal across all age groups. Generally outdoor recreationists have higher levels of education than average, some studies indicating as many as 50% having full or part tertiary ualifications. Closely correlated to education is occupation and income level, although these were not found to effect setting choice. Gender varies with outdoor pursuits, with males being more freuent in active pursuits (for example, hunting, fishing and kayaking) and females in more passive pursuits (such as picnicking). Participant stage in the life cycle was seen to be helpful in understanding park use. Studies of non-users found higher proportions of non European, disabled, aged and low socio-economic groups The type of outdoor recreation activity undertaken can also be broadly classified into active and less active pursuits. Outdoor recreation literature clearly shows greater participation levels in less active pursuits than active pursuits such as tramping, climbing and kayaking. Outdoor activities most freuently pursued by the general population include picnicking, going to the beach, recreation driving and walks The Hillary Commission for Sport, Fitness and Leisure (1999) note that in New Zealand two out of three people over the age of five are active in their leisure time. This is very high by international standards. Sport and active leisure are unuestionably part of the New Zealand way of life, but one in three people are insufficiently active and for many this poses a serious health risk. Just over 200,000 young people and almost 900,000 adults are not active for the minimum time recommended for a healthy lifestyle.

24 22} The type of activity people pursue is also linked to their length of stay many visits to outdoor recreation areas are relatively short. The concept of Time Deepening is concerned with people attempting more activities of shorter duration in any given space of time. As a result, a greater pressure is placed on urban fringe areas for outdoor recreation Technological advances that facilitate these forms of recreation have already revolutionised some forms of recreation. For example, the advent of plastic kayaks has facilitated more wide spread use of river systems. Parallel to this growth in technology is the apparent increase in activity specialisation (i.e. cross country, recreational and downhill mountain biking) An associated trend is the increasing number of activities being undertaken by individual recreationists, evidenced by the shift from traditional tramping clubs to clubs catering to a wide range of activities. More recreation is now unstructured. Activities are increasingly being pursued with family and friends rather than organised groups A Wellington City Council study noted a number of factors, which reflected general social and economic changes occurring in society, also had significant implications for how people participated in recreational activities. These included: An increase in casual participating in a more diverse range of recreational activities. People are participating in more activities but spending less time on any one. New technology is creating new opportunities and enhancing old ones. An increase in outdoor goal-oriented activities, such as nature based or conservation activities. New approaches to work are changing the patterns and type of recreation being sought. There is a greater interest in physical fitness, healthy eating and other forms of self help activities. The home remains the main venue or hub for leisure activities. There is a strong movement to multipurpose facilities and venues and the amalgamation of recreation providers. An increasing expectation by recreation providers that activities should be run at a profit (if commercially provided) or on a user-pays basis (if publicly provided). Maori Participation in Outdoor Recreation Maori settlement on the Manawatu River is believed to have taken place approximately twenty five generations ago. The first settlers were the Rangitaane tribe, who came down the Manawatu from the Hawkes Bay region. The Manawatu river holds a high level of cultural significance for Maori, due to its value as a food gathering resource, and also as a source of identity, anchoring local Iwi to the area as their home An example of this significance is still reflected today, in the area between Maxwells Line and the Opiki Bridge, which is known as Kairanga. Kairanga means accumulation of food in Maori, and reflects the former value of the area as a harvesting place for Eel, Whitebait, Kawhai, Kopuku, Fresh Water Mussels, Crayfish, Mudfish, Ducks and the gathering of Watercress.