Workshop Topics and Key Outcomes
Environmental Initiatives and Goals
Participants discussed a range of potential environmental actions, with an overarching goal of achieving a healthy Hauraki Gulf and fostering ecological sustainability. Key initiatives included:
Water Quality and Pollution Control:
Fixing stormwater drains to prevent litter from washing into the ocean and onto beaches.
Beach cleanups and campaigns with cyclists to address and raise awareness of local waste issues.
Ecosystem Restoration and Biodiversity:
Intentional planting of native flora to protect biodiversity and strengthen ecosystems for the future.
Support for RTH (Restoring Takarunga Hauraki), as well as investment in environmental education in schools to instil a sense of stewardship in younger generations.
Community Involvement and Consultation:
Fostering partnerships with entities like Mana Whenua (indigenous authorities) and encouraging regular consultations with environmental groups to ensure community voices are heard.
Establishing environmental planning for the area and promoting sustainable practices.
Improved Communication and Transparency:
Calls for better communication from the Council and Devonport-Takapuna Local Board (DTLB) about environmental projects, allowing the community to be more informed and actively participate.
Success Criteria and Outcome Vision
The desired outcome for these initiatives is a healthier, more resilient Hauraki Gulf ecosystem, benefiting both the environment and the health of the community. Success would mean visible improvements in local biodiversity, clean beaches, and empowered community members engaged in environmental stewardship. Increased environmental education and involvement from younger generations were also viewed as essential to sustaining these efforts.
Key Stakeholders and Responsibilities
Participants mapped out a matrix of key individuals, groups, businesses, and organizations critical to achieving these environmental goals:
1. People:
Schoolchildren and youth were identified as essential for engaging in environmental education and hands-on restoration activities.
Project leaders and community members were also noted as vital for organizing and participating in initiatives.
2. Local Groups:
Mana Whenua and other indigenous authorities were cited for their role in guiding sustainable practices and connecting initiatives to cultural stewardship.
Groups like Rotary and local environmental organizations (e.g., RTH, community gardening clubs) were considered important collaborators.
3. Businesses:
Local businesses, especially those with sustainability goals (e.g., GoodFor, a zero-waste store, and the main supermarket), were viewed as partners to help promote and model environmentally friendly behaviours.
Local business associations (DBA) were seen as helpful in mobilizing the business community to support these efforts.
4. Local Organizations:
Institutions like the Local Board, Devonport-Takapuna Council (DTC), Department of Conservation (DOC), and Recycling Centre were identified as crucial resources and leaders for environmental initiatives.
Their roles would include providing resources, facilitating education, and ensuring that environmental projects align with larger regional policies.
Summarising the discussion on Environmental Initiatives and Goals
This workshop organized by the Devonport Peninsula Trust highlighted a community-driven commitment to environmental stewardship on the Peninsula. The proposed initiatives reflect a shared vision for protecting and nurturing the local ecosystem, involving diverse stakeholders—from youth to local businesses and government bodies. Moving forward, the Trust could aim to activate this network to implement these initiatives, encouraging a deeper sense of belonging, ecological responsibility, and sustainable living within the community.
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Informed by this survey's results, how could the Peninsula be an even better place to live?
We'd love to see you at the Community Hui and bring-a-plate afternoon tea.
2:30pm Sunday 20 October, Holy Trinity Hall, 20 Church Street, Devonport. RSVP