Toxic algae in our rivers a warning
And just like that, it’s February. And like this time last year I have warnings to share about toxic algae in our local Waikanae and O¯ taki rivers.
Across the Wellington region the O¯ taki,
Waikanae, Hutt, Ruamahanga and
Waingawa river monitoring sites all recently exceeded the 20 per cent alert threshold, while the Waipoua River monitoring site continues to exceed the 50 per cent no swim threshold.
Detached mats have been found in all of these rivers, but in varying levels. It is almost certain that other non-monitored rivers across the region will also be effected, so please be vigilant about the spots where you are swimming.
The rapid increase in toxic algae corresponded with big increases in region-wide temperatures and lower than average rainfall.
For example, at the time of the first warning last week about toxic algae, with the exception of the O¯ taki River, it had been 35 days since the last decent flush for most rivers and streams in the region.
Regional council’s specific areas of concern in the Ka¯ piti Coast cover the O¯ taki River, with the warning extending from SH1 bridge to the river mouth, and the Waikanae River, with the warning extending from Main Rd (old SH1) to the river mouth.
Regional council is shortly undertaking a review of the Ka¯ piti Coast bus services — this is part of the planned reviews following on from the changes that were implemented from July 2018.
This public consultation process will be your opportunity to share your views
The rapid increase in toxic algae corresponded with big increases in region-wide temperatures and lower than average rainfall.
Due for completion in the first quarter of 2020 and priced from $380,000 + 10% entrance fee are 20 two-bedroom villas in the heart of Waikanae, an extension of the existing Wellington Catholic Homes Trust 20 villa retirement village, designed for independent living. Early interest in a specific villa can be secured by deposit for a purchase off the plan. The calculated floor area for each of the residential units will be 68 m2, with the garage contributing a further 18.m2, for a total floor area of 87 m2. The villas comply with the latest standard of environment protection, including captured rainwater tanks, double glazed windows, fire walls between the double units and flexible on what could be improvements to our local services. Keep an eye out for when and how you can get involved, I’ll keep you posted on the details via my columns and there will of course be formal advertising coming out from GWRC.
Here’s something else to plan for — if you’ve got some garden projects coming up mark in your diary GWRC’s annual Gravel Grab at the O¯ taki River which is on Saturday March 21 from 10am to 2pm.
Bring along a trailer and some buckets and we will help you to get the rocks directly in your trailer for no cost. There will also be an area where you can pick your own rocks to put straight into your boot.
These rocks are available for you to take to help us manage the flood risk of the river so it’s a win-win for everyone! utilisation of a 2nd bedroom or enlarged living area. The access to the Village is via St Vincent Way running off Sylvan Avenue. The location includes a footpath to provide easy access to Parata Street which in turn is in a very short and convenient walking distance to the main shops and railway station.
Age of entry 65+ and no Religious preference