Pōrangahau waste plan released
The Hawke's Bay Regional Council has publicly released the Pō rangahau wastewater consent(s) lodged by the Central Hawke's Bay District Council.
After more than three years of engagement with Pō rangahau and Te Paerahi residents and the wider public it has become obvious that continuation of the current system — where treated wastewater is discharged into the Pōrangahau River and dunes in Te Paerahi — is not an option for the community.
The proposed changes within the consents seek a long-term, environmentally responsible approach where treated wastewater will be irrigated onto land, allowing time for soil absorption and plant growth.
This will be the second project of its kind notified in Central Hawke's Bay and aligns with the Big Wastewater Story Programme — the council's vision for sustainable wastewater management.
The Hawke's Bay Regional Council is calling for feedback from the public on these proposed changes.
David Tipene-Leach, of Ngāti Kere, says they welcome the removal of wastewater discharge from sites of cultural and environmental significance.
“Ngā ti Kere is pleased to see beach wastewater disposal taken away from the ecologically sensitive sand dunes of Te Paerahi and that the town oxidation pond will be removed from the culturally significant Awanuia-Tamanui pa site. The end of disposal of wastewater into the Taurekaitai River is welcomed with glee.”
Councillor Brent Muggeridge, the chairman of the Finance and Infrastructure Committee, says the proposed changes meet the council's vision for a sustainable future in
Central Hawke’s Bay. “We are committed to improving how wastewater is managed and discharged in our district. This incredibly important environmental change will see real benefits for our community now and into the future and signals another positive step forward in our Big Wastewater Story Programme.”
Any person may make a submission on the application by going online to www.hbrc.govt.nz. Search #notified and complete the online submission Form 13. Or visit https://www.hbrc.govt.nz/services/resource-consents/notified-consents/.
Hard-copy submission forms can also be obtained from the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council reception or on request. The regional council must receive your submission no later than 5pm on May 17, 2022.
If you wish to discuss the project, contact the Central Hawke’s Bay District Council on (06) 857 8060.