17 November 2015

More than 1000 involved in rivers workshops and survey

More than 1000 stakeholders and members of the public have now been involved in workshops and an online survey related to the project aimed at restoring and protecting the Waikato and Waipa rivers.

The workshops and survey were part of the Waikato Regional Council and river iwi-managed Healthy Rivers: Plan for Change/Wai Ora: He Rautaki Whakapaipai project.

Some 235 stakeholders attended a recent day-long workshop at Mystery Creek, while a total of 245 people came to the five scheduled community workshops in Hamilton (59), Otorohanga (49), Reporoa (44), Tokoroa (55) and Tuakau (38). Another 561 people responded to an online survey by the recent cutoff date.

“The turnout and survey participation has been a reflection of the strong interest in the project’s work,” said Bill Wasley, the independent chair of the multi-sector Collaborative Stakeholder Group (CSG), which will next year come up with a recommended regional plan change to help protect the rivers.

“We’ve also been seeing different sector and industry groups talking amongst themselves to help develop their views on the best way ahead.”

Feedback and comments provided by the public and other parties will be analysed by the CSG as it develops a recommended plan change.

More information on Healthy Rivers/Wai Ora is available at www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/healthyrivers.

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