Monday 12 October, 2015

River management experts visit Region

Representatives from all but one regional council and unitary authority involved in the river management and flood protection business visited Horizons Regional Council last week.

Horizons group manager operations, Allan Cook, hosted the gathering which acted as one of two meetings held annually for the River Managers’ Forum.

“Normally we meet in Wellington to share knowledge and undertake joint initiatives in the river management space. However, there are occasions where we meet elsewhere to look at significant projects of interest,” says Mr Cook.

“In this case we took the group around key features of the City Reach Project which is in its final year and the Lower Manawatu Scheme rural upgrades; a $40 million 12 year project which is about to commence year 10. At each site we discussed key design features, consenting challenges and relationship management with landowners.”

Horizons chief executive Michael McCartney says it was a pleasure to host the gathering at Horizons.

“We have a variety of crucial flood protection works in our area and a huge depth of experience in our staff which was shared with this group. These meetings provide an excellent opportunity to learn from river management peers and look at issues from a national perspective.”

The day included a visit to Anzac Cliffs, Manawatu River enhancements at Fitzherbert Bridge, Burkes Pumpstation and Main Drain at Rangiotu.

ENDS

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