Media Release
15 September 2006

Ngati Otara Marae a Critical Community Asset

Manukau City Councillor Su’a William Sio is assuring the local Maori community that Council officers are working diligently to fix the collapsed underground stormwater pipes which have compromised the toilet blocks of the Ngati Otara Marae.

“Officers have assured me that they are on the job this very minute,” says Councillor Sio.

Manukau City Council is replacing stormwater pipes on the site of Ngati Otara Marae following subsidence under the toilet block.

The marae is on council-owned land in Ngati Otara Park.

A 3m wide by 6m deep cavity developed under the toilet block at the marae on 9 September. The hole has been covered and fenced off for public safety.

The subsidence was caused by the collapse of a stormwater pipe, which is likely to have happened because of its age.

The building is not in any danger or unsafe but is considered unsanitary so cannot be used. A closure notice has been issued until the stormwater problems are fixed. Alternative bathroom and toilet facilities are available at the marae.

Work is now underway to replace the collapsed stormwater pipes. The council is also investigating options for moving stormwater lines away from buildings on the marae site.

Councillor Sio says there should be minimal disruption for people using the marae.

“The marae is a critical asset for Otara so I have stressed to council officers to make sure this issue is dealt with to the satisfaction of the community.

“People should be confident that the stormwater pipes will be fixed as soon as possible and the council finds a way to avoid this happening again,” Cr Sio says.

ENDS

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