Ruataniwha critics given a serve

"What isn't clear in this reporting is that there are two distinct parts to this project: one is the cost of building the dam and the infrastructure for piping water to the farm gate, the other is the cost of developing onfarm irrigation systems," says IrrigationNZ chair Nicky Hyslop.

"A year on, yes there is an increased cost to building the dam – $275-$330 million; and the more time goes by the more it will cost. There will never be a cheaper time to build than today.

"New modelling shows us there is a small (6%) increase in water charges to farmers."

Hyslop says the land use opportunities from the proposed irrigation scheme are diverse, including apples, grapes, cropping, dairy, sheep and beef finishing, and vegetables.

"Farmer uptake will be based on good information. Signing up to the scheme is a big decision for farmers and intergenerational. This is not a step to take lightly and it is common for farmers to sign up towards the end of the process. We have seen this with many other schemes around the country."

Hyslop has criticised those regional councillors who are against the project and disputing the need for it, but who concede the Hawke's Bay needs water storage.

"As extreme weather patterns become the norm and drought starves our communities of potential we must think big and look to the future. It is not useful for us to get tied up in the pettiness of upcoming local elections and the positioning that goes with this.

"There are multiple benefits to large water storage projects and the community could do with a reminder at this stage that these are long-term economic, environmental and social benefits that will
see Hawke's Bay having a resilient, sustainable and bright future."

Hyslop says the certainty of water supply from Ruataniwha will put a stop to insecurity that comes with drought and help turn Waipukurau into "the Oamaru" of the north.