Port, iwi agree on dredging

Nga¯i Tahu has won concessions from Lyttelton Port Company through mediation over a resource consent for a big dredging programme due to begin soon.

One of the largest dredges in the world will arrive in Canterbury in July to begin deepening the channel for mega-ships capable of doubling freight capacity.

Nga¯i Tahu’s objections focused on preventing sediment dumping at Godley Head, tighter environmental controls in Lyttelton Harbour, and a reduced consent period.

The port company will also make payments to local Ngai Tahu hapu to enhance access to mahinga kai, and undertake research and development.

An initial payment of $50,000 must be paid within one month, followed by 24 annual payments of $25,000.

One of the significant concessions from the mediation was the reduction from a 35-year resource consent to 25 years.

Stricter environmental controls include requiring the port company to provide a programme of its proposed dredging one month in advance to Nga¯i Tahu, and to liaison groups including mussel farm owners Nga¯i Tahu and Sanford, and Environment Canterbury.