| Minutes 2009 AGM |
| Written by Selwyn Hodder |
| Sunday, 17 May 2009 11:39 |
|
http:/www.nzffa.net Patron, Sir Peter Tapsell KNZM, MBE The Secretary Selwyn Hodder C/- P O Box 38 777 HOWICK, AUCKLAND 2014
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE NEW ZEALAND FEDERATION OF FRESHWATER ANGLERS ( INC) 2009
Held at the Latimer Hotel, at Christchurch, on 25th & 26th April 2009. PRESENT. Executive and Members Ian Rodger, President (Auckland Freshwater Anglers Club) David O’Neill, Immediate Past President. Selwyn Hodder, Acting Secretary, (Auckland Freshwater Anglers Club) Strato Cotsilinis, Treasurer, (Wellington Fly Fishers’ Club) Tony Orman, Editor and Publicity Officer (Stream 2000) John Beattie, (Horowhenua Freshwater Anglers Club) Jim Hale, (Manawatu Freshwater Anglers Club) Alan McMillan (Otago Streambashers and Fly Flingers) Johnny Groome (West Coast)
Guests Chrissie Setters (West Coast) Marlene Winchester (West Coast & “Wild Rivers Campaign”) Rob Roney (Chairman, Fish & Game NZ) Murray Rodgers (Water Rights Trust) John Morton (Author and Fly tier) Eric Roy (MP for Invercargill) Ron Stuart (President, NZ Salmon Anglers Assn) Andrew Howard (Canterbury Fly Fishing Club)
APOLOGIES Sir Peter Tapsell, Patron Ken Sims (Palmerston North) Malcolm Francis (Kapiti) Ian Cole (Wanaka) Russell McKendry (Takaka) Dr Margaret Adams (West Coast) Frank Murphy (NZPFGA) Hugh Barr (CORANZ) Eric Wilson (Advocates for the Tongariro) David Booth (Manawatu Freshwater Anglers) Frank & Carol Harwood (Turangi) Brian Lowe (Stream 2000) Sandy Bull (Gisborne Anglers). Ted Bason (Former President NZFFA - Blenheim) J B (John) Henderson (Wellington)
Accepted (Hale/ Orman) - Carried PROXIES
Tony Orman Kapiti Fly Fishing Club Stream 2000 Gisborne Anglers Ian Rodger Auckland Freshwater Anglers Matamata Freshwater Anglers John Beattie Horowhenua Freshwater Anglers Andrew Howard Canterbury Fly Fishing Club Jim Hale Manawatu Freshwater Anglers Strato Cotsilinis Wellington Fly Fishers
Accepted (Hale/ Cotsilinis)-Carried CLUBS REPRESENTED. Auckland Freshwater Anglers, Canterbury Fly Fishing Club, Gisborne Anglers, Horowhenua Freshwater Anglers, Kapiti Fly Fishing Club, Manawatu Freshwater Anglers, Matamata Freshwater Anglers , NZ Salmon Anglers' Assn., Otago Stream Bashers and Fly Flingers, Stream 2000 and Wellington Fly Fishers, MINUTES OF THE 2008 MEETING
It was resolved that “The minutes of the 2008 AGM be tabled as read” Accepted (O’Neill/ Beattie) - Carried
MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
Term of Presidency. The Special Meeting of the Federation in 2004 had altered the Constitution and a Point of Order submitted by Kapiti Fly Fishing Club was deferred. The matter arose as follow-up to the REMIT of last year’s AGM which asked that the wording, which was considered to be ambiguous (in the Constitution), be altered. The 2004 amendment clarified this and no alteration to the current Constitution is needed.
Review of Accounts Audit of the accounts had been changed to “Review” of the accounts at last AGM. Strato Cotsilinis spoke and clarified the position regarding the Reviewer to be a Member of the New Zealand Society of Accountants. He is to investigate this further and make a recommendation to the incoming committee as to whether the Federation would require future “Reviews” to be by a member of the NZ Society of Accountants or not.
Constitution Copies of the Constitution incorporating the 2004 and 2008 amendments were tabled. These were accepted and once the “Reviewer” position above has been clarified will be sent to the Registrar.
Communication Andrew Howard requested clarification as to the responsibility of the Executive to communicate with their local Clubs. President explained that this was an expectation of executive position and executive should make themselves freely available to address Clubs and further the aims of the Federation. A number of executives had spoken to Clubs, viz North Shore, Canterbury Fly-Fishers, and Hamilton Anglers in recent months. President Ian Rodger urged executive members to visit both ‘member’ and ‘non-member’ Clubs to inform them of the work of the NZFFA. However, he emphasizes, ‘getting the information to the ‘club members’ is very important and all steps are to be taken to communicate by email. For this reason key email addresses ARE NEEDED. (See below).
The position of “Research” Officer becomes vacant with the resignation of Ken Sims. The Committee felt that a title change to “Information Officer” would better reflect the present values of the Federation and a major thrust would be to upgrade the “Website” of the Federation by the new “Information Officer”. David O’Neill recorded that this in no way reflects on the outgoing “Research Officer- Ken Sims who in over 30 years service had introduced all these Communication policies to the Federation. (There is more on Ken Sims later in General Business & Election of Officers). It was resolved that " The Federation change the name of " Research Officer" to " Information Officer" and the Editor and Publicity Officer be responsible for the newsletter and publicity items and the Information Officer be responsible for the web site and also investigate linking our member Clubs' web sites to our website"
Accepted (O’Neill/ Orman- Carried
Kapiti Fly Fishers Club had submitted a remit on “Communication “and this is covered under “Remits”.
Newsletters presently go out >4 times per annum. After discussion it was decided that this frequency was sufficient but, at the discretion of the Editor, topical issues could be covered as “one offs” any time the editor chose. Also the newsletter to be appended to the Website with the suggestion that all clubs with websites do likewise.
Tony Orman said “Letters to Editors” of Newspapers is a great way of presenting the Federations views and more of this is supported by the executive with copies to go to the local Clubs (and website where possible..
The Federation is very keen to progress its news to the Clubs via Website and Email and while we have some many Club email addresses we URGE ALL CLUBS TO ADVISE THEIR EMAIL ADDRESSES to the Federation ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it please). Especially, to Club Newsletter Editors also, so that they may reprint our articles. Individuals who would like to be on this email lists please send in your email address also.
David O’Neill asked whether individual Executive could write letters on policy matters to e.g., Fish & Game, CORANZ, and PANZ etc. After discussion the Executive felt that such letters or responses needed to be “Approved” by the President “first please”, to ensure our Policy is consistent.
Other “Communication” items: Aquatic Hitchhikers: Overseas Anglers Licences: Guide Licensing, were deferred to General Business.
FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS
The Federations Treasurer (Strato Cotsilinis) presented the financial report and financial statements for the year ended 31st December 2009.
It was resolved that the Financial Report and Statement of Financial Performance be approved. (Cotsilinis/Orman) Carried Mrs Carmen Cotsilinis had assisted Strato with much of this work. It was resolved to send her a gift of wine &/or flowers. (O’Neill/Hale) Carried
Subscriptions & Member status It was resolved that the subscriptions remain at present levels i.e. $3.00. (Cotsilinis/Rodger) Carried
At a request from the executive, the Secretary read out the “Classes” of members (Clause 5 of the Constitution) Member Clubs- Incorporated Clubs with compatible interests to NZFFA. Associate Members – Individuals. (Whether members of Clubs or not). Business Members - Associations, Societies, Traders & Small Businesses. Corporate Members- Public & large Corporations.
It was noted that there is no current provision of Life Members. Executive were requested to consider a Constitutional Amendment to permit this.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
There being only one person nominated for each position, the following Officers were duly elected.
President Ian Rodger Secretary Selwyn Hodder Treasurer Strato Cotsilinis Editor and Publicity Officer Tony Orman Information Officer Andrew Howard Immediate Past President David O’Neill
North Island Representatives: South Island Representatives: John Beattie Alan McMillan Brian Lowe Russell McKendry Malcolm Francis Ron Stuart Sandy Bull Johnny Groome Jim Hale Dr Margaret Adams Ken Sims (Co-opted Associate) Erin McDermott (Co opted Associate) Ian Cole (Co opted Associate)
Accepted (Hale/ Orman)- carried
CORRESPONDENCE
- Hon Tim Groser- Minister of Conservation. Dd 11/3/2009- Customs Import Prohibition (trout) order 2007. - Hon Steve Chadwick - Minister of Conservation. Dd 23/9/2008 - Felt soles for ‘Fish and Game sports fishing 2008/09 Anglers notices’. - Hon Steve Chadwick - Minister of Conservation. Dd 26/5/2008. Reply to NZFFA letter re NZFFA opposition to shooting for pecuniary game on game preserves. MATTERS ARISING FROM CORRESPONDENCE Referred to the President’s Report, which covers these matters. PRESIDENTS REPORT It was resolved that ‘The Previously circulated report be accepted “ (Hale/ Orman) Carried Presidents Report Presidents Report 2009 Introduction We have a new Government and with the change come advantages and to the contrary. As always, we have to be diligent in keeping abreast with changes mooted and trends that we see emerging. The current moves to ‘streamline the RMA ,could well see a lack of public consultation, and permission being granted for projects such as hydro dam construction, without us being given the democratic chance to make meaningful submissions. This disturbing trend could also see less public involvement in decision making, especially in areas we see as having wide ramifications for both angling and the ‘freshwater environment’ as we see it. As anglers we know and respect the great freshwater resource that we have. We have voiced our concern that it is important for both the NZ public and the politicians to understand the value of freshwater and the importance of managing it properly to everyone’s advantage in the long term. This we have done for many years now. The National Party’s pre-election ‘Blue-Green paper’ made it clear that they supported ‘tradeable water rights’. As covered at length in last year’s Presidents Report, the Federation is against the ‘privatisation of water’ in any form at all. The precedent of allowing ‘tradeable water rights’ could well lead to the ‘privatisation of our freshwater resource’ in the long term. ('Transferable', possibly). This is untenable. (Many lessons can be learned from examples of commercial exploitation where this has been allowed around the world.) An example of the ‘awareness of the value of water in the world’ was the fact that ‘valuable stocks of water’ was the quest for the ‘baddies’ in the last James Bond movie ‘Quantum of Solace’! The theme of last year’s AGM was ‘The management, utilisation and conservation of our great freshwater (fishing) resource – and access by it by all New Zealanders. This year our theme is: ‘Water –‘ the lifeblood of the fishery – and of the land’. The AGM is being held in Canterbury which gives us the opportunity to broaden our theme to integrate the wider concern of ‘the environment surrounding the water’, being the very land itself. The Constitution of the NZFFA charges us to 1 (c) “To advocate the protection of New Zealand’s natural environment and in particular its freshwater ecosystems’. Considerable concern is held for the sustainability, not only of Canterbury’s freshwater resource, but of the very land itself with the pressures being put upon it. Much of Canterbury’s freshwater aquifers and rivers are already over-allocated for agricultural, industrial and domestic use. The implications are considerable – and not only for the fishery. An organisation is only as good as its people. The NZFFA always, like any good organisation, needs good people – both young and old. We need ‘young blood with new ideas’ and we ‘need the experience of the older angler’. This year we lose the services of Ken Sims, who has been involved with the NZFFA for over 30 years and will be known to many of you as being the Editor of ‘NewsWatch’, that great ‘information clearing house of all things fishing – and it’s environment’. Ken will be sorely missed – though he assures me that ‘he will still be listening and commenting’ and that is important! (One of Ken’s concerns has been the tightening of ‘internet copyright laws making it become more difficult and far too expensive to source the data we want.) Alan McMillan (past NZFFA President and Chairman of the Trust of ‘PANZ’ (Public Access NZ)) continues to make very valuable contributions to the work we do. Strato Cotsilinis our Treasurer and very keen fisherman who keeps us up-to-date with his chairing the ‘Taupo Fishery Advisory Committee’ and other matters. Our scribe Tony Orman’s diligence in spotting and reacting to news items is invaluable as is the contribution made by Dr. Hugh Barr of CORANZ to whom we are affiliated. Others such as David O’Neill keep a diligent eye on matters affecting the fishery in their areas – in David’s case with a constant stream of ‘Letters to local Editors’ ,and Johnny Groome’s continual battle for the Arnold River on the West Coast. However while our representation is reasonable throughout the country, new blood is constantly needed and we invite nominations for positions on the Executive annually. In addition, in this electronic age of communications, we ask that email addresses of Club Presidents, Secretaries and Newsletter editors be forwarded to us. Any member of NZFFA is welcome to be on our email list. In the same vein, ‘communication is a two-way street’ and we welcome any ideas, matters of concern, up-dates or just general news as affects our mutual interest areas from EVERYONE. Has your club sent and REMITS through for consideration at the Federations AGM? Why don’t you drop us YOUR email address?
Didymo and felt soles
One of the most contentious issues faced by the NZFFA this year was the issue of supporting the proposed ‘felt-soles ban’ or not to. We canvassed the opinions of not only the Executive members but other anglers and guides, and after due consideration it was agreed to support the Fish and Game proposal because ‘it would show by this initiative that we, as anglers, are willing to take such action in the best interests of the fishery in the long term’. We made it clear to F&G and to MAF/BNZ that this action was conditional on seeing other interest groups such as kayakers, trampers, jet-boaters and other freshwater users are willing to take similar measures to protect the freshwater resource. However, VERY little further action has been seen. To many, the ‘safety issue’ is paramount, with many geological riverbed and bank surfaces being dangerous with the replacement rubber and studded soles. There still remains considerable feeling on this and unless we see further action by the authorities with other water users there will be considerable resentment. (For example refer ‘Prof. Guides’ press release of 210409 on the matter.) The only action I have seen is some very good posters prepared by DoC picturing kayaks and rafting action and asking them to ‘CHECK-CLEAN-DRY’. Very little activity has been seen from MAF/BNZ – the exception being a brochure which they are considering printing which will have the headline, ‘Protect our Freshwater’. MAF/BNZ have zealously guarded their ‘CHECK-CLEAN-DRY’ catchphrase and in deference we have not pushed our ‘STOP AQUATIC HITCHHIKERS’ promotion that was recommended at our last AGM. At a meeting of the Auckland-Northland ‘Didymo/freshwater pests Partners Group Meeting’ recently the matter surfaced and it was agreed that the Group would support the use of the ‘STOP AQUATIC HITCHHIKERS’ theme. While MZF/BNZ have had ‘Didymo people’ on the Picton Ferry wharf and noted favourably by travelling fishermen, it’s been very much a ‘PR’ gesture and largely ineffective as by the time trailer boats/kayak carriers are seen they are well up the queue to the boat and past any ‘cleaning station’ or even a hose to wash down gear. The battle for good signage at airports for example has not been won and very little ‘presence of DIDYMO by name is seen at international and domestic airports. While I am sure that some tackle shops do it I have been surprised with the number of anglers that have commented that ‘they were given nothing on ‘Didymo’ when they bought their licences. This is a very obvious ‘point of contact with anglers’ that has been forgotten. (At the same time acknowledging the Fish and Game internet/phone booking system where data comes with the posted licence.)
The ‘Resource Management Amendment Bill’ (Simplifying and streamlining); possible changes to the ‘Foreshore and Seabed Act and changes mooted for the ‘Overseas Investments Act’.All three of these acts are in the process of either being changed or consideration being asked for by submissions on proposed changes. We are involving ourselves with all three – with the considerable assistance of Alan McMillan. There is considerable concern that the changes to the RMA will mean that ‘the general public interest will not be ADEQUATLY PROTECTED OR INDEED THE ENVIRONMENT ITSELF WILL NOT BE PROTECTED FROM ILL CONSIDERED COMMERCIAL EXPLOITATION’. This could relate to anything from yet another hydro dam to the ‘privatisation of the fishery’. In the matter of the review of the ‘Seashore and Seabed Act’ we have been invited to submit our comments to the Ministerial Review team led by Justice Durie. (Any comments from members will be welcomed.) Many of you will have seen much media comment of late on the proposed ‘easing up of restrictions affecting the purchase of land in NZ’. (See Review of the ‘Overseas Investment Act). Apart from being parochial, I am most concerned to see that vast tracts of land could be purchased with very little concern being given for ‘access to the fishery’, if no other reason. Again the ‘privatisation of the fishery’ rears its head and already we have made our concerns felt where access is being denied in favour of ‘selling access to the fishery for pecuniary gain’. This is quite contrary to ‘Sec 23 of the Wildlife Act’. (which Fish and Game is currently proposing amendments to, against our better judgement!.) In addition, ‘foreign’ owners often come from countries that do not have the Kiwi egalitarian society or laws, the most notable being Section 23 of the Wildlife Act which in principle says that charging for fishing or shooting rights is not only unlawful but is against our heritage. We continue to lobby with our political contacts in these areas – and others of course. Public Access.
The ‘Walking Access Act’ came into force on the 30th of September 2008 after many years of consultation with stakeholders such as us. This establishes the ‘Walking Access Commission’. The term ‘Walking Access’ is accepted as a generic term to mean ‘access’ and there will be cases where ‘driving access’ is appropriate and accepted. Currently the Commission is made up of 7 Board Members plus the Chairman John Acland – a South Island farmer. John has been part of the team since its inception and he has done an excellent job. We are most indebted to his tenacity and drive in getting the ‘concept’ this far. I attended a very useful meeting of ‘stakeholders’ in Wellington in December where we met all members of the Board and were able to put our ‘wish-lists’ forward. The matter of ‘where to with ‘Paper Roads' – local authorities and central Governments intentions are very different than what we would like to see. There is a strong body of opinion that wants to see ‘paper roads’ become ‘walking tracks’. This is far from acceptable. It's most important to realise that the most secure form of public access is 'legal roads'. (Read 'Paper Roads'). These ALLOW THE PUBLIC ON A CYCLE, and WITH A DOG OR GUN (and a fishing rod!) on a horse, to pass and re-pass. The whole subject concerns us and we must be diligent and not let Local Authorities (and Central Government) does not trade off ‘paper roads’ for other things they think more important.
Power generationThere is concern, that under changes possible to the RMA, it could become easier for the current government to pass schemes which are not in the long term interest of NZ - or indeed the fishery. Pressure on ‘new hydro’ continues. (NEVIS, ARNOLD, MOKIHINUI, KAWARAU, WAIAU (Nelson), the ARNOLD and the CLUTHA to name but a few. The media has been full of articles on all sides of the ‘need for power’; verses ‘use wisely, solar and wind power and conservation measures such as double glazing’. All have their place. There is no question that the state of the transmission system in many parts of the country, means for considerable power losses. (Rightly identified by the Government in power (no pun!). To add fuel to the fire we have the situation where on one hand the Govt criticises the (Govt owned) power generators for ‘price increases’ yet on the other demands better returns for the ‘govt coffers’. However in the background is ‘the quest for more power and profit from ‘clean-green’ hydro – while we use more power to mine coal to send to China and India to burn creating emissions! The ‘Health of the Fishery’.Considerable concern has been expressed on the ‘Health of the Fishery’. The state of the Taupo Fishery has been severely criticised by many, as is the impact of headwater and wilderness fishing due to ‘overseas anglers being helicoptered in great numbers. Frank Murphy (President Prof Guides’ (as reported in the Minutes of the last AGM ) said that: “The PFGA consider that the NZ Freshwater Fishery is in serious trouble, and under far worse pressures that most people (including most anglers) think .” They will support anything that enhances the sustainability of the fishery. Many other ‘amateur fishermen subscribe to the theory also. There will be a remit tabled at this year’s AGM asking that one of the North Islands well know rivers be stocked. (This is from a very keen angler who has fished for NZ in international competitions and who knows the river intimately – and supported by his club.) This raises the question of Fish and Games responsibility for the ‘health of the fishery’. Should they not be resurrecting the hatcheries of years past and stocking key river systems? Are they not charged to maintain and improve the sports fish and game resource under section 26C of the Conservation Act 1987, and section 26B of the Conservation Law Reform Act 1990? Privatisation of the fisheryThe Federation has been battling to get some satisfactory explanation on the trend to privatisation of fishing and hunting. Pheasant shooting preserves, where reportedly the charge may be from $1,000 to $4,000 a day, run counter to the principles laid down in Sec 23 of the Wildlife Act while exclusive capture of trout fishing rivers must be stamped out. Game and fish are intertwined by the very name "Fish and Game." Buying fishing and shooting rights strikes at the heart of the foundation of the public ownership of fish and game. We look to Fish and Game to address these matters. We will not be slow in keeping them to the task.Environmental issues that could affect usAs mentioned in my last report I note an increasing interest in the ‘animal rights’ movement spreading into other areas such as fishing. There is a strong ‘anti-marlin’ (and other big fish) movement and more than the occasional comment comes through on species such as ‘trout’. It’s real and we must be aware of this. In the same vein I was more than a little taken aback when someone that I thought I knew quite well, middle-aged and mature, in mentioning she was doing an environmental paper at the local UNITECH commented that, “ you are not interested in supporting the trout fishery are you! THEY ARE THE OPPOSUMS OF THE WATERWAYS.” Yes, we do have different points of view and values! We have a job to do, one we must do better than we are, and that is to ’protect (and improve) the fishery’. (Not only trout and salmon, but the ‘native’ fishery as well.) While the degradation of the waterways (dams, abstraction, erosion and other contamination) is of major long term importance, the impact of potential negative changes in the ‘Overseas Investments Act’ (access) and ‘the streamlining of the RMA’ (major projects such as hydro being bulldozed through without public participation) let alone the ‘Seabed and foreshore Act’ are all matters that will IMPACT THE FISHERY (and the quality and value of NZ’s freshwater resource). For this reason we must increase our membership and ‘representation on our executive’ from ALL parts of the country. WE are all responsible here. WHAT CAN YOU DO TO ASSIST? Where to from here? I am very cognisant of the fact that we are not ‘being heard or wielding the influence that we would like to’. As inevitably happens in many organisations, the bulk of the work is done by a few. We have to change this so that more people are ‘taking action and having an impact’. This will be discussed at our AGM. Fish and Games responsibilities and their impact on ‘protection, management and improvement’ of the fishery is something that many licence holders question and we will take the opportunity to discuss this with their staff at the AGM also. This we are forced to involve ourselves with. We continue to enlarge the ‘voice of the Federation’ by having more clubs and anglers join us. To that end Tony Ormond travelled south to address the ‘Canterbury Fly-fishing Club’ and I did likewise with the relatively new ‘North Shore Fly-fishers Club and also the Hamilton Anglers Club. Also, we welcome as a member club, the old and well established OAK Club whose headquarters are on the well known OHAU CHANNEL in Rotorua In truth we have one of the better trout and salmon fisheries in the world which was set up by our forebears with good management and far sightedness. One of the objectives of our Constitution charges us with ‘protecting, enhancing and fostering the sport and fellowship of freshwater angling’. We shall continue our quest to achieve this for us all. We were fortunate enough to have the ‘world fly-fishing championships’ in March 2008 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKTIDv06-d0&feature=related and the participants reminded us of how fortunate we are to have such fine fishing in such (relatively) clean water, and the inexpensiveness of the sport here. We must not forget this. Let’s keep it that way. I would like to take the opportunity to thank all those members of the Executive and all those other anglers who keep in touch and contribute to what we are doing. All your efforts are appreciated. Are you coming to our AGM? Have you a REMIT (concern) that you would like to see addressed? Are you on our email list? It would be great to see or hear from you. Have you checked out our website? www.nzffa.net Thanks for your time – look forward to meeting you on a river some time. Ian Rodger MATTERS ARISING FROM THE PRESIDENTS REPORT. These matters were discussed under Remits, General Business and Guests’ addresses. REMITS
Fish & Game have re iterated their ‘no stocking policy’ as they consider it is bad genetically and is a high cost per unit returned. (Quote Rob Roney, Chairman F&G) It was resolved “That Fish & Game respond to Clubs’ requests to investigate the reason for declining stocks in specific rivers on a scientific basis. If it was then considered necessary, that they consider re stocking such rivers” (Hodder/Rodger)-Carried
Confirmed by Fish and Game, and Eric Roy (MP) that this is now being considered.
“That a letter be sent to the Federated Farmers of NZ requesting that their support in providing for the Freshwater Anglers permission to access leased Crown land( be given)” Executive discussed this at length. Comments were that the issue of “Marginal Strips”, the ability to “Wander at Will” needed clarification in the Remit. The remit was considered non specific.
However the Executive considered that they could support the motion if it was changed slightly and with the consent of the Kapiti Proxy - Tony Orman- the remit was accepted with the following changes. Clause 1 Change “permission to use Crown Lands” to “permission to use agreed access over Crown Lands” Clause 2 Change “permission to access leased Crown land (be given”) to “permission to use agreed access over leased Crown land (be given)” It was resolved to write to: Federated Farmers and The Minister of Conservation with this remit and to engage in discussions with the “Walking Access Commission” on the matter. (Rodger/Orman) -carried
“That the Executive of the New Zealand Federation of Freshwater Anglers document a DRAFT National Communication Strategy “. Passed (Orman/O’Neill) carried
This remit has been referred to the newly elected “Information Officer and the Editor & Publicity Officer” with authority to form a subcommittee( with David O’Neill and Malcolm Francis) to formulate such a policy.
GUEST SPEAKERS Murray Rodgers - Water Rights Trust.( www.waterrightstrust.org.nz) Murray presented a moving and sincere address “Canterbury’s Wicked Water”. This highlighted the serious plight of the position in Canterbury and the work of his and other organisations to bring Public , Government and Local Authority information about the poor state and possible actions ( that could be) taken to address these issues. They have 7 major rivers 200 streams and countless lakes in the district. Over 50% of Lowland streams have poor quality in summer- or even no water at all. 90 % of Canterbury’s useable water comes from aquifers, some of which are under threat from long term nitrate contamination. The region suffers from-flawed legislation (the RMA needs revamping); Long Term impacts have not been satisfactorily addressed; The Dairy Impact escalates; There is no apparent Regional Plan; There has been little co ordinate Regional effort. In a Public Survey the following votes were drawn;- 99% agreed that each “Home” should expect a good supply of clean water. 98.2% agreed that we should protect the Quality and Quantity of water in Rivers, Streams and Lakes for FUTURE generations. 85.3% considered that a “Clean up “for farming should not be paid for by the Community. 81.1% considered that an allocation of Water should be “Held Back” pending further research. The Water Rights Trust considers that the times for serious action is NOW and are working to ensure this happens. The Water Rights Trust participates in the steering group for Canterbury Mayoral Forum which offers the best hope for Canterbury to resolve these issues (the issues are in the process of being presented to the Canterbury public, together with 4 options for how to solve them). Further detail is available from the website for the Canterbury Water Management Strategy “ www.canterburywater.co.nz. All members of the Canterbury public are encouraged to go to this site and get involved.
Rob Roney – National Chairman ‘Fish and Game New Zealand’. An abridged copy of Rob’s address is below: First of all, thank you for the invitation to attend and speak at your AGM. It is the first time that I have had personally had contact with you and I hope this will lead to a better understanding between our two organisations and result in positive outcomes for our Freshwater fisheries. The freshwater Resource: One of the on-going issues that continue to frustrate us as a not-for-profit organisation is the constant need to advocate for water quality and consistent flows in waterways throughout New Zealand, when this statutory responsibility clearly lies with Regional Councils and DOC.
It is encouraging to see some local government agencies beginning to recognise the consequences of accumulative effects of changing land use. Without all local government agencies acting in this manner, many indiscretions remain undetected or depend on third parties like Fish & Game (and yourselves) devoting scarce resources to proving the scale of the environmental degradation. As a competing user, agriculture remains the biggest threat to our rivers, streams and lakes but the agricultural sector leadership is reluctant to accept responsibility.
However, it has been pleasing to see key Government Ministers now recognising the problem, we believe as a result of campaigns such as our ‘Dirty Dairying’ campaign and subsequent lobbying, to the extent that we now have a draft National Policy Statement on freshwater, and it now appears that the major issue for us now will be not be if – but when the government will move to implement meaningful changes.
Regarding the RMA it is interesting to note that the Ministerial appointed Technical Advisory Group on RMA reform has suggested disestablishing Regional Council governance structure and absorbing their executive functions and staff into a proposed new EPA. It appears from my reading of the amendments that submissions for major developments such as hydro dams will remain part of the process. We await the results of this review with interest.
Protecting free-flowing rivers The responsibility to protect our free flowing rivers lies with Regional Councils. Sadly, the application of Water Conservation Orders (WCOs) as a form of protection is not used by regional councils who opt instead to use much weaker regional water plans. These plans are provided for a number of different purposes to guide water protection, water quality and water allocation and use. They have a life of ten years before they must be reviewed and tend to have an enabling rather than protective style. Regarding ‘tradability’ of water, one could argue that exactly that is happening now within the current RMA process.
Fish & Game New Zealand favours the use of WCOs, which provide a ‘National Park’ type status for waterway protection. As you will be aware Fish and Game are party to a joint application with the NZ Recreational Canoeing Association for a WCO on the Hurunui River here in North Canterbury. We have also applied to vary the Water Conservation Order (1997) on the Kawarau River, in respect of the Nevis River in Central Otago and celebrated the publishing of the WCO protection order on the Oreti River in Southland in August last year. We also challenged and defeated Talley’s attempt to ‘undo’ our WCO on the Gowan. As you can imagine these achievements all take considerable time and resources, just to maintain what we have.
One on-going concern is DOC’s apparent willingness to trade off some conservation values for others. A case in point here is the Nevis where DOC refused to support our WCO amendment to the Kawarau, in favour of gaining some high country estate from the Power Company proposing the development. We have consistently pointed out that under section 6 AB of the Conservation Act, DOC has a role to “Preserve as far as is practical all indigenous and recreational freshwater fisheries and habitats”.
Our CEO and a group of our regional managers recently attended a workshop of the ‘Wild Rivers Action Group’ in Murchison which I understand you also had representation at. This appears to be a well motivated and articulate group with a clear focus and an ability to influence decision makers. In the current political climate it is vitally important that all interested groups work together in a collaborative way to get maximum traction with both the public and Government.
Regarding energy at our recent strategy meeting the NZC, guest speaker Prof. Bob Lloyd from Otago University spoke to us on the global energy future. It was pleasing to hear him comment that in his view Hydro development is nearing its end in NZ, and he believes that there will be very few large scale hydro developments in the future. We sincerely hope he’s right.
Water Storage: I know that this topic will be addressed separately at this meeting and is one veiled in controversy. Fish & Game New Zealand’s position is that we support water storage for agricultural use provided both the direct and indirect freshwater environmental effects are benign. I should note that this is followed up by a long list of specific conditions. (Murray Rogers)
Access to our public resources We maintain that enhanced access to the outdoors is undeniably in the national interest, and in addition to improved health and community benefits, leads to improved understanding and awareness of environmental issues and rural issues. Many of these principles and issues of concern to us have been reflected in the new Walking Access Act which was significantly improved during the Select Committee process.
It is also my understanding that the threat of converting paper roads to ‘walking tracks’ has subsequently been removed from the Bill.
Our involvement and influence in securing the Walking Access Act I believe has been a significant success for Fish and Game NZ. Free, certain, enduring and practical public access to public land and to public natural resources (such as wildlife, freshwater fisheries and natural water) for recreation is a fundamental principle underpinning Fish & Game New Zealand.
Recent legal and public policy research that Crown pastoral leases only grant the run holder exclusive rights to the pasture and do not extend to exclusive occupancy of the land has persuaded F&GNZ to apply to the High Court for a declaratory judgment to resolve this issue. A decision on this is now imminent, and obviously has the potential to significantly improve access to the high country of the South Island.
The Government’s decision to review the OIA’s provisions are of a concern to us, particularly as we put so much effort into securing the specific inclusion of Fish and Game resources into it. We have approached Bill English to obtain the Treasury report on the review of the OIA and as recently as Thursday received a memo from him refusing our request. So much for open government! I assume that your organisation too has written to the government over this issue.
Privatisation of the Resource: The setting up of Game Preserves over the past 10 years has lead to general concerns over privatisation of the Fish and game resource. Game preserves were originally set up under a ‘loophole’ in the legislation which was recognised by the Minister of Conservation and our legal advisers at the time, and subsequently the Minister licensed several preserves. There are now 18 licensed Game Preserves in New Zealand operating under very strict conditions imposed by F&GNZ to allow limited exploitation of game farm reared upland game pheasants. We are seeking to have the law clarified so this is made clear and contained under regulations set and managed by us.
The NZC believes that Game Preserves have an important role to play in bringing new and young participants into our sports. As a teacher I am constantly reminded of the competing interests and alternatives to outdoor sports in NZ, and in particular hunting and fishing. I note in Ian’s annual report reference to the Animal Rights movement as being a future threat to fishing. We have even stronger concerns for game bird hunting and note the demise of such hunting in most Australian states already.
My daughter, who last year worked for a chicken genetics laboratory in Scotland, tells me that after terrorism, Animal Rights activists are listed as the second biggest threat to Britain’s security. Increased participation to support our advocacy is essential, particularly among our increasingly urbanised and ‘digitalised’ youth. We see Game preserves and fish-out ponds (such as Lake Pupuke on TV 1 news on Thursday night) as one means of achieving this goal. Think about who first introduced you to angling and then reflect on the statistic that 40% of boys in NZ are in fatherless families.
Health of the Fishery: You raise the question of Fish and Game’s responsibility for the ‘health of the fishery’. In particular, the question of stocking. My answer is simply ‘no’, we should not be ‘stocking’ rivers – its bad genetically and high cost per unit returned. We need to be able to manage angler numbers by location, which we don’t currently have a general authority to do – only one-offs like the Caples-Greenstone. I would be interested in your views regarding how F&G should limit angler numbers in sensitive fisheries.
Didymo: Another contentious issue: You mention that a number of anglers have commented that ‘they were given nothing on ‘Didymo’ when they bought their licences. It hasn’t been forgotten - it’s a yellow banner across the bottom of the cover of the regulations booklet they get with their licence, including the website link, where there is heaps on Didymo info). I agree with many of your comments on Bio-security’s lack of direct action on Didymo, particularly at the inter Island plane and boat terminals.
Rob and his wife stayed on to discuss these matters in depth with the Executive. We are indebted to him making this time available to us. Eric Roy - MP Eric is a keen supporter of Outdoor movements and recreational pursuits and joined the meeting on Sunday morning. Eric listened to the various addresses and spoke on his concern for the Environment and the Governments various Action Plans. Eric confirmed that Differential Licensing was under Action. Also the Resource Management Act changes are being heard right now. Eric made the following points in discussion:
The country needs an extra 150 mw in the foreseeable future. We have averaged 90 mw increases over the last five years. A wide “Scoping” arrangement is now under review to ascertain the best way forward. KYOTO brings a number of challenges. Other avenues of Power generation need to be examined. Eric agreed that the Overseas Investment Act needed Public Clarity. RMA is presently being reviewed and hearings are being held around the Country. Paper Roads have been the cause of some discussion. There is no plan to alter the existing process rules. Local Authority act(s) applies. Trout Bill. Eric commented on the withdrawal of this from the “Order Paper’ There is no plan to relax the present importation ban.-(A copy of the legislation will be forwarded to the President). Walking Access-2008 - The Executive applauded John Ackland’s work with this bill. Board Members contracts have been renewed with varying expiry dates. Changes will come then as these expire.
Alan McMillan commented on the excellent work Eric had done on the Select Committee and congratulated him on his excellent presentation in Parliament on this Bill.
Many of the comments made by the earlier Speakers were relayed to Eric who took them all on board in a positive manner. We are fortunate to have an MP who has such a good understanding of Freshwater fishing, Access, and Outdoor Pursuits issues.
Marlene Winchester – Wild Rivers Action Programme ( WRAP) Marlene recently represented the Federation at the inaugural meeting of this Campaign. Other attendees were from Forest & Bird, NZ recreational Canoeing Assn, Fish & Game, Kayakers Assn, White-water Canoe Club, Federated Mountain Clubs, ECO, Jet Boating NZ, CORANZ and West Coast Environmental Network. The speakers discussed the ‘Living Rivers’ coalition and Wild Rivers as natural, free flowing and in a Wild state. NZRCA has identified 26 rivers under threat of modification and the Ministry of Economic Development and Regional councils continually identify Rivers for Hydro schemes. The object of WRAP is to seek conservation orders where appropriate and they seek the support of all the associated river users. Some better publicity and a campaign is planned this year Executive considers that we continue to support in principle the aims of the WRAP and the Wild Rivers Action Campaign. Ian McCrory – Fish & Game – North Canterbury Ian, Manager of North Canterbury Fish & Game, joined the meeting. He is the Manager for 12 months while Ross Millichamp recovers from illness. Ian gave us an overview of this Region and spoke with enthusiasm & Dedication for the tasks that the staff is undertaking here. The Region suffers from poor water volume & quality in the lowland areas (plains) and Ian welcomed the efforts of the Water Rights Trust (Murray Rodgers) and other involved organisations such as Environment Canterbury. They have 11,000 Fish licence holders the majority of whom are Salmon Fishers. A major portion of their revenue is now spent on “Resource Legislation” appeals and Compliance needs. The present example is the “Hurunui” River where Fish and Game have prepared a case to the Tribunal regarding the proposal to dam the river and build a weir on Lake Sumner. Ian tabled the “Photographic” part of the submission and the location and area affected is stunning. All Executive were very impressed with the quality of their submissions. NZFFA has already lodged a submission in support & F & G were appreciative of this. The region runs a hatchery at Montrose and Ian explained these workings of this to us. High country access is becoming a more difficult issue with overseas owners taking different views on permission to access waterways via their properties. Some excusive entry has been observed and work needs to be done to combat this. A major thrust has been the “FISH IN SCHOOLS” project where some 40 schools have been involved/invited to grow (primarily) Salmon smolts in a Fish tank supplied by F & G as a school project resulting in eventual release into a local river. The response has been exceptional with a huge amount of understanding of the need for “Good” water and life cycle of fish being learned by the children. Additionally it is important that youngsters see this as, (as Spoken of by Rob Roney) these are the fisher people of tomorrow and there are so many competing activities available that we need to “Catch ‘em Young”. F & G nationally promoted this but it seems that North Canterbury F & G Lead the way with this endeavour. Strato Cotsilinis agreed to investigate the current status of the F & G programme and report to the Executive Executive requested a supply of the Regions “FISH IN SCHOOLS” booklets for distribution in their local areas. John Morton - Author and Fly Tier John joined the Executive for afternoon tea and after that gave us a brilliant demonstration of some special tying tricks. We were most impressed. The demonstration was interspersed with John’s wit and stories and a brilliant, too short, time was enjoyed by all. If you can see one of his demonstrations don’t hesitate! REPORTS FROM THE REGIONS Johnny Groome of Ahaura (near Greymouth) and our West Coast representative gave a passionate presentation on the “ARNOLD” river hydro – electric scheme. The Arnold River is a Grey river tributary not far from Greymouth which is the outlet from Lake Brunner to the Grey River. It is typical of the West Coast with a mosaic of land types including pasture, exotic forestry, stands of bush and indigenous forest and reverting bush and scrub. The road and Midland railway run alongside the river mostly on the south west side. A dam across the river has existed at Kaimata, about half way along the river, since 1932. A freezing works (CMP) is at Kokiri about 5 km below the dam. The river flows some 26 km from Lake Brunner to the Grey River at Stillwater. It has a stable flow regime. Mean flow is 69 cm, median flow 60 cm and annual floods at 300cm. It is a significant trout fishing river and also used extensively for recreational kayaking and rafting. As it has stable flows it is considered very suitable for hydro power generation by TrustPower Ltd for an expanded hydro scheme. The Commissioners appointed by the West Coast Regional Council and Grey District Council found IN FAVOUR of Trust Powers’ application. Initially F & G (and DOC) opposed the application but came to agreements with TrustPower and supported the scheme, subject to particular conditions at the hearing. Some of these mitigations include that “better access will be available to the public” but Johnny contends that this could easily be improved by local voluntary work and is not really “mitigation” for a hydro scheme” Johnny has found it difficult to have his view heard and has received quite a lot of antagonism and even forms of Intimidation in his quest to be heard. Johnny has appealed the scheme as he considers that a lot more could have been achieved by way of opposition than has been the case. It was resolved that- ‘The Federation supports in principle Johnny Groome’s work on the Arnold Hydro scheme. The Federation requests the President to make contact with F & G West Coast to discuss the position following which the Federation to prepare a Press release expressing the Federations views on the Scheme. The Federation to consider assisting Johnny Groome with some costs associated with his appeal. “ (Hale/ Orman) Carried GENERAL BUSINESS Naming of Bridges – Many of the members remember well when some river bridges having a “Fish to be found” sign e.g. ‘Rangitikei River – Brown and Rainbow trout’. Executive requested that we write to the Automobile Association regarding this. The Role of Predators in Trout Fisheries Management - Paper presented by John Beattie and Tony Orman. This paper discussed the role observed over time of Eels but primarily Black Shags. There is evidence from studies (H G Williams- 1945 booklet) done that the Black Shag is a major predator of trout. The paper discusses this in detail and says that “Predator/Prey relationships are not always simple.” Whether action on “Shags’ is warranted and in what (if any) form needs robust debate. Executive agreed that the “Paper” should be printed in the Federations’ newsletter, and our website, to foster further debate. (Paper is available from the Secretary). Black Shags Paper presented by Strato Cotsilinis. This paper discusses further the role of the Black Shag in NZ and whether a campaign should be mounted to change the legislation in respect to the destruction/reduction of Black Shags in NZ. Only Black Shags are discussed not other shag species. Strato concludes that Black Shags do consume trout but the question is whether this is detrimental to the Fishery. Increasing the number of Trout by reducing the numbers of Black Shags could in fact have a detrimental effect on a fishery and this is demonstrated in the paper. I.e. a much larger number of trout may then have a diminished food supply and destroy the fishery due to over numbering. If Members consider there is a local problem, then this needs to have concrete evidence and be reported through F & G locally. Under the present provisions of the Wildlife Act section 53 & 54 the position can be managed. Club Membership/ Promotion of NZFFA The Federation wishes to continue to represent its members at the highest level. WE need your EMAIL and Postal addresses please (to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ). Some high profile Clubs will be addressed directly by the Executive – Jim Hale and John Beattie to champion. All Clubs are being notified with the suggestion that they invite Executive to attend Club evenings as speakers as there is much to share. Website Andrew Howard (Information Officer) will manage our website our Website. Contact email is: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Ken Sims The Executive wished to record its appreciation of the tireless work done by Ken over the past 30 years. He has stood down from the executive this year. Jim Hale spoke of Ken and his work and; “It was resolved to express the Federation’s appreciation of Ken Sims’ work at the next AGM and the Executive to make a suitable notation and presentation to Ken at an appropriate time. It was further agreed that the existing Computer set up may be kept by Ken Sims. (Rodger/Orman) –carried (This was discussed in detail by the Executive but as Ken Sims would probably read this (!) the detail is not published but the Executive will discuss further offline. ) Donations It was resolved to make the following Donations. -Public Access New Zealand (PANZ) $500.00 (Rodger/Cotsilinis) -carried -Advocates for the Tongariro $100.00 (Rodger/Hale) -carried CORANZ It was resolved to write a letter of Appreciation to the Council for Outdoor Recreation – Dr. Hugh Barr for his continued assistance (Rodger/Hodder) - carried Next Meeting (AGM) Next Annual General Meeting to be held in Turangi or Taupo in mid April 2010. THANKS TO PRESIDENT Jim Hale thanked Ian Rodger, President, for the effort and work he put into the Presidency this year and this was received with acclamation. The meeting concluded at 1.30 pm on Sunday the April 26 th
|