News release 24 March 2004

Funding for flood damage

The February storms caused $440,000 worth of flood damage in western rivers and streams in the Hutt Valley, Porirua and Kapiti Coast, Greater Wellington Regional Council’s Landcare Committee heard today.

The committee agreed to fund these repairs from a variety of sources including existing maintenance budgets and the flood contingency reserve.

It also agreed to spend up to $206,000 for new edge protection works on the Otaki River. This will be completed by 30 June 2005.

“With the exception of the Wairarapa, the Wellington Region was lucky to escape the worst of the February storms. However, there were significant flood events in some rivers and streams and strong winds brought down trees contributing to the damage. We’re very fortunate we have well-maintained flood protection measures, especially along the Hutt River. Without those, things could have been a lot worse,” says Landcare Committee chairman Chris Laidlaw.

The committee also approved a study be carried out of the Waiwhetu Stream. The water levels in the Waiwhetu were described as a 50-year flood and several pockets of houses and commercial properties were flooded.

“Together with Hutt City Council, we will look at the flood risk (including stormwater flooding), develop flood maps and come up with a management plan for the Waiwhetu Stream. As always, we will carefully consider all the available options and consult with the community before we decide how to assist people to protect their property in this area,” Cr Laidlaw says.

ENDS

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