News release

1 December 2010

Residents encouraged to have their say - Waikanae River FMP review

Greater Wellington is asking for residents’ views on managing the flood risk from the Waikanae River.

“The Waikanae River is a fantastic asset for communities on the Kapiti Coast. People use the river for recreation and enjoyment, and it is a great natural environment. From time to time however, the river also has the potential to flood adjacent areas of the Waikanae floodplain,” says Graeme Campbell, Greater Wellington's Flood Protection Manager.

Greater Wellington manages the flooding potential of the Waikanae River via the Waikanae Floodplain Management Plan (WFMP), first published in 1997. A review of the plan is currently underway which includes consultation with residents.

“The review process is an important step in ensuring that the flood risk from the Waikanae River is well managed and reflects the current needs of the communities that live, work and participate in activities on the floodplain," he says.

“It also serves to keep residents and community groups informed of the flood risk and well prepared for a flood event.”

As part of stage one of the review, Greater Wellington prepared a Summary 10-year Review document which is now available to view at www.gw.govt.nz/waikanae-river, or by contacting Greater Wellington (details below).

Stage two of the review seeks community input on the progress of the WFMP so far, and feedback on the key issues that the summary report identifies as requiring further action.

Communities can give their feedback by sending any comments to: Flood Protection, Greater Wellington Regional Council, PO Box 11646, Wellington 6142, or by contacting:

ENDS

The feedback period will close on Monday 20 December 2010 after which time Greater Wellington will consider the submissions received, update the summary report and make changes to the Floodplain Management Plan if required.

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