Flood models deeply flawed
Correspondent David Hall is largely correct about the benefits of developing hazard models. In this case, however, the flood modelling seems fundamentally flawed because properties that will almost certainly never flood (on elevated low ridges with freedraining sediments and soils) are erroneously lumped in with those that are lower-lying (with slowdraining sediments and soils), which may have a slight risk of temporary flooding.
Such a one-size-fits-all risk model is legally and morally indefensible and should be challenged because of misleading implications about the level of risk and the unfair potential effect on property values by factually wrong LIM notes.
The confusion over the meaning of flooding can be laid at the feet of those amateurs who wrote the cryptic letters sent to households. I threw mine in the rubbish because it seemed irrelevant. The modellers meant temporary surface detention (large puddles).
Another assumption that should be questioned is the level of seriousness of the impact of an intense rainfall event. In such an event, those properties on the low terraces alongside the Waikato River (or downstream in the Huntly area) have much more to lose than those on the higher land surfaces in Hamilton that may develop a soggy backyard and a few puddles, which will drain in days. Stormwater systems have been upgraded in these areas and, if properly maintained by HCC, should cope in most situations.
Those responsible for the modelling would be better informed by examining large-scale soil maps of the city, and the extent of the effects of the 1998 intense rainfall episode. PROFESSOR DAVID J LOWE Hamilton emigrated to New Zealand many years ago. Here is the story.
My father was Charles Patrick Kenny. His brother was William (Bill) Kenny. They were both born in India. We emigrated to England in 1951. Bill, his wife Evelyn and daughter Rosemary moved to New Zealand about the same time, I believe. Bill and my dad used to exchange Christmas cards every year, but then my dad died in 1965, my mother in 1990, and now my only sister (Valerie), who still lives in England, has cancer. I am desperately trying to make contact with the other side of our family.
With the aid of an acquaintance who lives in New Zealand I have found out a lot through public records, but people are dying and time does not stand still. Rosemary Kenny (my cousin) married Claude Ozanne who preceded her in death. Rosemary died in 2010. Here is her obituary:
‘‘Peacefully at Waikato Hospital on Sunday 7 February 2010 aged 83 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Claude. Loved Mum of Cushla and Malcolm, Kevin and the late Joseph. Beloved Grandmother of all her grand and great grandchildren.’’
One day, before I die, I will place flowers at the grave of Bill and Evelyn Kenny, and Rosemary Kenny Ozanne, but for now I would like to contact the living! If anyone has information about my family, please contact me. PETER KENNY 2359 The Woods Drive East Jacksonville, Florida, USA treatment these very facts. C M MCKENZIE Chair, Patients’ Rights Advocacy Waikato