PROTECT WETLANDS

It is very disappointing to see that Far North District Council intends to upgrade the Kerikeri sewage scheme to the detriment of two nationally important wetlands situated within the Waitangi Crown Forest.

Having worked extensively in wetlands throughout Northland for the past 25 years I would rate the Waitangi wetlands as being amongst the most special left in the region.

Unfortunately nutrient loading from the Waitangi, Paihia, Opua and Kerikeri sewerage schemes plus fertiliser from the forestry operation are slowly destroying these wonderful wetland habitats.

We are being assured that nutrient levels will be lowered when the new sewerage scheme comes into operation however the volume of discharge will double.

No predictions of future discharge volumes appear to have been considered.

If we are serious about preserving the remaining 5 per cent of wetlands left in New Zealand then action must be taken.

The council has the option of investigating the feasibility of creating an artificial wetland within the Waitangi forest complex where both outfalls could be discharged.

Forestry practices such as ongoing fertiliser application and riparian management need to be addressed. Once again the biannual Kerikeri International Piano Competition has come and gone and what a simply magnificent event this is.

I have been involved with this competition from when it first started and I can honestly say that the standard gets higher each time.

These young pianists who come from all over the world to Kerikeri seem to enjoy every aspect of this competition.

Sincere thanks must go to the board who work tirelessly for two years prior to the competition.

Also thanks to the many volunteers.