1 May 2018

Media: Rotorua Daily Post

Topic: Flood issues

Enquiry

Rotorua Daily Post sent an inquiry prompted by speculation online that Council was partially responsible for flooding.

The suggestions are that subdivisions haven't been planned properly, with adequate drainage, and that the drains aren't being kept clear enough to prevent surface flooding.

Are you able to please clarify the following?

- Is the council satisfied it has the proper processes in place to prevent flooding in Ngongotaha?

- Have there been any reductions in maintenance, such as drain clearing, in recent years?

They also followed up regarding suggestions that the flooding has been severe on the proposed land for the SHA 1, 31 Hamurana Rd, and that this has previously been raised with the council.

- Will the flooding at the weekend make the council rethink the housing development?

Response

This was an unprecedented event with record rainfall in a short period of time and the situation in Ngongotaha happened quickly. Rotorua Lakes Council will work with Bay of Plenty Regional Council as part of a debrief that will be held in due course and will include considering how risks can be mitigated in future.

There have been no reductions in maintenance of sewerage or stormwater systems.

The application for Special Housing Area status is currently with the Minister. That is only part of the process. If/when the landowner lodges an application for subdivision, it will be subject to district and regional council consenting requirements such as engineering analysis including stormwater and geotechnical considerations.