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Environmental concerns

Having lived in the Athenree/ Waihi area for about three years, I have grown to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquillity of a largely unspoiled area which has bush walking tracks, rivers and stunning beaches plus everything associated with them.

On Wednesday, October 27 I stopped at a layby in the Athenree gorge to explore the river that flows through it. I was greeted by a pile of rubbish, lots of beer bottles, some old household goods, a huge TV and other trash dumped behind a berm, hidden from the road. About 5 metres away, down the bank and in the access way to the river were three freshly dead pigs, one partially in the water.

It’s disturbing that whoever dumped not only the rubbish but also the pigs, possibly different people, have absolutely no regard or respect for the area and environment. I add that very close downstream from where these pigs were dumped is a popular swimming hole frequented regularly by presumably locals.

With this type of mentality from some individuals, it’s not surprising we have polluted waterways and environmental issues.

On a positive note, I phoned the local council who generally get a bad rap, and they responded within hours to clean up.

I was advised that a Katikati address was found in the rubbish so hopefully this can be followed up on in one way or another by the relevant authorities.

In closing, a huge thank you to Jacqui and her team for not only cleaning up the junk and burying the pigs but also for great communication around my concerns.

Name withheld Athenree