Ruataniwha dam busted?

The promotor of the scheme, the Hawkes Bay Regional Council, has newly elected members opposed to the dam and another opponent as its new chairman, Rex Graham.

The new council met for the first time last week, after which Graham told Rural News of a “change in sentiment” about the project. Two councillors are opposed to the dam, but favour water storage, and he described the rest as “sceptics”.

“It’s too early to say if we would put a hold on the scheme and it’s also too early to speculate on what any outcome might be. The majority around the table are sceptics and I guess those of us who are elected are conscious of the fact that the public want to know more,” Graham says.

“Some people are really anti the dam and we have to be conscious of and respect that. During our discussions the question was raised as to whether there ever was a mandate for project.”

Graham says councillors recognise that the project is a long way down the track and the thought of going back to basics would be interesting. The councillors need to know the risks and benefits of the project before they make any further moves.

“The only thing I can tell you is what was absolutely clear: a majority of councillors are cynical about the process and the dam, but where to from here nobody is sure.”

Meanwhile, the local president of Federated Farmers, Will Foley, says he personally remains supportive of the dam project as necessary for the health of the Tukituki River and the economy of Central Hawkes Bay.

A lot of work has already been done and money spent on the project and he predicts it will take time for the new council to reach a decision.

“The community is still very much behind it and is getting a bit frustrated with the delays. The one thing the new council will achieve will be to further delay it even it does go ahead,” he says.

Foley says while the delays continue, the investors and construction firms are waiting to see what might happen.