05 January 2005
Ruapehu Lake Intervention Needed More Than Ever - Nz First
New Zealand First has asked the Ministers of Internal Affairs and Conservation to urgently consider adopting
interventionist strategies on the Ruapehu crater lake to minimise the risk to surrounding areas.
“I am aware that the Ruapehu District Council has a major emergency management plan, that appropriate warning devices
are in place, and that Government funding and advice has been available,” said Local Government and Environment
spokesperson Jim Peters.
“Notwithstanding the plan, nothing is in place which would really alleviate the dramatic impact should the lake break
through its highest bunding level.
“The Government needs to urgently rethink its historical unwillingness to face up to the impact of a potential disaster,
and the likely consequences on the downstream and down-country communities.
“The recent statements by Harry Keys of the Department of Conservation continue to give no assurance and no comfort,”
said Mr Peters.
ENDS