Stream Restoration Project Recognised by Planning Institute

30 June 2008

Work to restore a stream in an environmentally sensitive area near Turangi has been recognised in an award for the firm contracted by LINZ to manage the task.

Taupo-based Cheal Consultants received the New Zealand Planning Institute's 2008 Planning in Excellence in Project Award for the Hangarito stream diversion project. The award recognises innovative or creative excellence in a project involving physical work using a natural or physical resource, or its protection or conservation, improving the amenity or environment.

The formerly weed- and silt-choked stream had been diverted and heavily modified during the 1960s when the Tokaanu power scheme was in full swing. Barely visible under a tangle of willows and brambles, the Hangarito was prone to flooding the adjacent farmland.

LINZ's involvement in remedial work for the stream began a decade ago as a consequence of the Ancillary Claims Deed as part of the 1998 Deed of Settlement between the Crown and Ngati Turangitukua. On behalf of the Crown, LINZ was responsible for settling a number of ancillary claims resulting from the settlement, including the restoration of the Hangarito Stream and provision for future maintenance of the drain.

Graham Williams, Technical Leader Liabilities and Disposals, says LINZ worked in partnership with a number of stakeholders during the complex planning and consultation process that followed.

"Resource consents for the project were lodged in 2002 and granted in 2005 after consultation involving iwi, hapu, landowners, Genesis Energy, Transit New Zealand, Taupo District Council, Environment Waikato and Department of Conservation. The remedial work, planned by Cheal Consultants, got underway in 2006."

"In just two years since the restoration was started, the Hangarito itself has already been transformed from an eyesore to a pleasant amenity for the area. LINZ congratulates Cheal Consultants on the award."

Graham says the final stage of the work, including some minor stabilisation works and the opening up of the drain into the Tokaanu tailrace, should be completed shortly. LINZ will then transfer responsibility for the drain to Environment Waikato after a two year monitoring period.

Find out more about Crown property disposals.