18 October 2002
Media Release
Waiho River danger notice “a shock”
Mike Warren, spokesperson for Global Sanctuaries, owner of Black Sheep Lodge, said today that he was “shocked and
distressed” by the extraordinary Government decision to issue a Civil Defence hazard notice warning the public of the
likelihood of fatal flooding on the South bank of the Waiho river near Franz Joseph.
The warning is likely to be accompanied by forced relocation of businesses and residents in the area within a few weeks,
possibly without compensation.
Mr Warren said his business stood to lose millions of dollars if it was not given assistance with buying safer land,
moving buildings and covering the loss of income just as the tourist season was kicking off.
“The safety of residents and visitors is critical. If the risk is really that high, then we must move, and as soon as
possible.
“But it is unfair that we should carry all the costs of the move. The Government must accept responsibility for its
decision.
“We want to continue with our business, and Franz Joseph needs the accommodation to maintain its tourist trade,” Mr
Warren said.
He said it would be hard to find a site as picturesque as the current location, and the task of moving the accommodation
buildings and other facilities would be expensive and time consuming.
“It’s easy for the Government to make the Civil Defence declaration to ensure it avoids negligence liability claims, but
the local authority and we ourselves need to make it happen.
“It’s not too much to ask the same people who switched it from being safe to dangerous to pay at least part of the costs
of implementing their decision.
“All we now ask is fair consideration by the Government and adequate funding of our move,” Mr Warren said.
Ends
For further information contact:
Mike Warren; 021 954 665