“The injunction assists the council because it clearly outlines that, for a period of time, the council might need to keep people away from the work site for their safety as well as that of council staff and contractors,” Mr Moraes says.
“Measures will also be taken to ensure people have reasonable access to their whenua and the lake while the work is carried out in a safe way.”
Mr Moraes thanked Tarawera residents for their patience.
“Our elected members are considering a range of options about how we can alleviate some of the cost burden for the Tarawera ratepayers. Council has voted to re-allocate $2m previously tagged for the Aquatic Centre towards this project and that will go towards alleviating some of these costs.”
The purpose of the scheme
The purpose of the Tarawera scheme, which will connect 446 properties to a reticulated sewerage system, is to protect the health of the community, the lake and downstream catchments.
Without the scheme, wastewater will continue to leach through groundwater into Lake Tarawera which discharges to the Tarawera River which flows through to neighbouring districts and communities.
The Tarawera scheme has been the result of extensive community consideration over many years, including discussion with and input from iwi and hapū. Arriving at the preferred option followed careful consideration of all technical, environmental, cultural, financial, and planning factors.
Mr Moraes says the history and success of Rotorua resides on the relationship between generations of iwi and hapū and others, and the council is committed to that continuing for the benefit and betterment of all.
