Work to update the science of aquifer

In focusing on regional highlights for this year, top of mind is the concerted effort by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council to update the science that underpins our understanding of the Ruataniwha aquifer. This work is being undertaken in conjunction with regional and district council representatives, local iwi, surface water users, irrigators, Tranche 2 applicants, Fish & Game, Forest & Bird, and Onga/Tiko villagers.

As a taskforce, we are very focused addressing short and long-term water security and reliability issues within our community. Our most recent achievement was a unanimous recommendation to HBRC to “urgently reconsider 2018 operative dates for increased minimum flows within the Tukituki Plan to provide two summers to allow the taskforce to work with the community and the Ruataniwha science programme to create a transitional plan for summer water security, subject to Tranche 2 consents being publicly notified, to meet Plan Change 6 by 2023”.

As a result of this community / iwi-led decision making, the Regional Planning Committee has now directed council staff to scope out and potentially initiate a narrow plan change process within the Tukituki catchment. This will seek to allow a window of time for existing water users to transition to new consent conditions, given the demise of the dam project. It’s definitely not a ‘get out of jail free’ card for this summer, but it could, if successful, provide a desperately needed amount of breathing space for collective community outcomes to be explored and initiated.

Regarding Tranche 2, I’m a strong advocate of letting science, as opposed to emotion, dictate this process. Our Chief Executive has advised it is highly likely to be publicly notified, but while within the consenting framework, no decisions have yet been made.

It’s been incredibly challenging attempting to address some of the anomalies of Plan Change 6 through statutory processes. Hence, this result is very refreshing. Plus, Mayor Alex and I have really enjoyed working together on your behalf.

I’d like to thank everyone who came along to our recent public meeting in Waipawa. The community interest and ongoing support for my role is incredibly humbling.

Wishing you and your families a safe and relaxing festive season.