Wairarapa Water Use Project Appoints Project Director

The Wairarapa Water Use Project has appointed Michael Bassett-Foss to lead future investigations into what could be one of the largest economic and social development projects in the greater Wellington region.

Still in its early stage, the project aims to develop a multi-purpose water scheme to collect and store water then distribute it in the dry season for a variety of economic and community uses in an environmentally sustainable way.

Previously Mr Bassett-Foss has had regional development, investment and strategic roles in the private and public sectors in New Zealand, South America, Eastern Europe and South East Asia.

He has spent the last four years overseeing regional economic development for the Hawkes Bay Regional Council including close involvement with development of the Ruataniwha Water Storage Scheme.

“Michael has been involved with all aspects of the Ruataniwha scheme, and understands the complexities of the Wairarapa project and the planning required for it to be successful,” Wairarapa Water Use Project leadership group chair Fran Wilde said.

“This is a new role established to oversee the project’s next phase which is yet to be finalised and will be announced within the next few weeks.”

Mr Bassett-Foss takes up the role on 23 September and will be based in Masterton. He will be employed by project sponsor Greater Wellington Regional Council and lead a project team largely based in Wairarapa. He holds a Master of Science and a Master of Business Administration from Massey University.

ENDS

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