Public feedback invited for milestone Pōrangahau wastewater consents

Marking a significant milestone in Central Hawke’s Bay District Council’s wastewater strategy, Hawke’s Bay Regional Council (HBRC) today publicly released the Pōrangahau wastewater consent(s) lodged by Central Hawke’s Bay District Council.  

Following more than three years of direct engagement with Pōrangahau and Te Paerahi residents and wider public, it was clear that continuation of the current system - where treated wastewater is discharged into the Pōrangahau River and dunes in Te Paerahi - is not an option for the community.  

The proposed changes within the consents seek a long-term, environmentally responsible approach where treated wastewater will be irrigated onto land, allowing time for soil absorption and plant growth.

This will be the second project of its kind notified in Central Hawke’s Bay (after Takapau) and aligns with the Big Wastewater Story Programme – Council's vision for sustainable wastewater management that will benefit Central Hawke’s Bay communities to come. 

HBRC is calling for feedback from the public on these proposed changes. 

David Tipene-Leach of Ngāti Kere says they welcomed the removal of wastewater discharge from sites of cultural and environmental significance.  

“Ngāti Kere is pleased to see beach wastewater disposal taken away from the ecologically sensitive sand dunes of Te Paerahi and that the town oxidation pond will be removed from the culturally significant Awanui-a-Tamanui pah site. The end of disposal of wastewater into the Taurekaitai River is welcomed with glee.” 

Councillor Brent Muggeridge, Chair of the Finance and Infrastructure Committee, says the proposed changes meet council’s vision for a sustainable future in Central Hawke’s Bay. 

“We are committed to improving how wastewater is managed and discharged in our district. This incredibly important environmental change will see real benefits for our community now and into the future and signals another positive step forward in our Big Wastewater Story Programme.” 

Making a Submission to HBRC 
Any person may make a submission on the application by going online to www.hbrc.govt.nz. Search #notified and completing the online submission Form 13. 
Or visit https://www.hbrc.govt.nz/services/resource-consents/notified-consents/.  
Hard copy submission forms can also be obtained from Hawke’s Bay Regional Council reception or upon request.   

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council must receive your submission no later than 5pm 17 May 2022. 

If you wish to discuss the project, contact Central Hawke’s Bay District Council on 06 857 8060. 

14 April 2022

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