IrrigationNZ supportive of Wairarapa water storage, warns that maintaining momentum is key
“It is encouraging that the Wairarapa Water Storage project has moved to the next stage with two possible sites selected
for water storage,” said IrrigationNZ CEO, Andrew Curtis.
“To maintain this momentum it is important that any outstanding issues are worked through in the next 18 months before
the consenting stage. This will avoid lengthy and costly processes at that point which can jeopardise the project.”
“Over the last four years the Wairarapa Water Storage Project leaders have engaged with the community so all
stakeholders are taken into consideration. In addition to this, there is collaborative work being done, through the
Ruamāhanga Whaitua zone committee, on freshwater management in the catchment. Both of these, plus clear national policy
guidance on water, should result in an optimal outcome for all, including sensible nutrient limits to protect local
rivers.
“The potential for the Wairarapa is huge. Introducing a reliable water supply is a big economic driver – as has been
demonstrated in other regions like Mid-Canterbury which is thriving and has very low unemployment - and there are many
communities in the Wairarapa in great need of similar wealth and job creation.
“This can be done by further agricultural growth and diversification. There are already the beginnings of a significant
viticulture and horticulture sector in the Wairarapa and with reliable water, production can be extended to vegetables
and seeds.
“The government has just allocated new money to the Irrigation Acceleration Fund and it is being put to good use funding
important community infrastructure projects like this one, which will bring much needed, long term and sustainable
growth to this large and important region on the outskirts of New Zealand’s capital,” he said.
ENDS