Official Information Request - 13 July 2018

Sent: Friday, 20 July 2018 9:30 a.m.

Subject: TRIM: LGOIMA request - economic impact study on mountain biking

I refer to your email of 13 July 2018 requesting information on the economic impact study on mountain biking in the Whakarewarewa Forest, and reply as per your email:

1. Who conducted the economic impact study on mountain biking at Whakarewarewa Forest to Rotorua?

- Michael Connell & Associates conducted the economic impact study

- Salt & Tonic conducted the two data collection surveys

- RLC conducted the direct spending estimation

2. Who paid for the study?

See No.3

3.What was the cost of the study?

$20,000 plus GST for Michael Connell & Associates (payment split 50:50 between Rotorua Lakes Council and Provincial Growth Fund)

$12,000 plus GST for Salt & Tonic (paid by RLC)

4. Who prepared the report presented to Rotorua Lakes Council in their meeting 12th July 2018?

A report was not prepared for the Council meeting on 12 July. A presentation was made by the Group Manager Strategy and the Strategy Advisor Economic Development.

As per the Act, we are obliged to advise that you may contact the Ombudsman at the address below if you have any concerns with the response provided by Council, by writing to:

The Office of the Ombudsman

PO Box 10 152

WELLINGTON 6143

Alternatively, you may email info@ombudsman.parliament.nz or use the online complaints form available at www.ombudsman.parliament.nz/make-a-complaint.

Regards