A significant drain maintenance programme is underway throughout the district.

Many drains were compromised by the Cyclone Gabrielle flooding, silt build-up and a wet winter. 

Wairoa District Council Chief Executive Kitea Tipuna said that based on feedback our community wants to see work completed on the district’s drainage. “We are also aware that there are opportunities to work with the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council and other partners to improve maintenance.

“We are focusing on areas where we will have the most impact and the most people will benefit, starting with urban areas, villages and then moving onto our rural roading network. Work is mainly around clearing open drains, flushing culverts and addressing siltation. So far, the southern side of the Wairoa township has been completed, because although there wasn't significant flooding on the south side, siltation has still been an issue.

“We are working on the northern side of town with just a few pockets to finish. Work at Frasertown is underway, followed by drainage work at Nuhaka and Mahia and moving on to the rest of the villages around the district.

“Siltation is problematic and, in some areas, as fast as we clear it, it is returning, so we know it will be a long process. We are also using the road sweeper for curb and channel silt clearance on a monthly basis.  

“We have reviewed the district’s drainage and identified particular areas that need addressing, but we are happy to receive feedback. Please be our eyes and ears, and fill out a CSR (Customer Service request) if you think there is an area we need to attend to.”

To lodge a CSR, please go online at www.wairoadc.govt.nz/contact-us/customer-service-request/, phone 06 838 7309 or call into the Council offices.

21 August 2023

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