Flood resilience input and farming experience needed – Greater Wellington calls for advisory group applicants

Wairarapa locals are being called upon to help shape the future of the rivers in the Ruamāhanga catchment by applying to be part of one of three River Advisory Groups.

The groups will provide advice to Greater Wellington’s Environment and Climate Committee on the management of flood and erosion risks for the areas of Upper Ruamāhanga, Waiōhine and Lower Ruamāhanga, influencing how Greater Wellington works with the rivers to keep communities safe.

Wairarapa representative and council deputy chair Adrienne Staples says local voices are crucial to enduring improvements to the region’s flood resilience.

“We do not underestimate the value of lived experience of Wairarapa locals,” says Cr Staples.

“No one is more invested in the resilience of this area than those of us who make our homes here, and the regional council wants to harness that investment to deliver decisions and outcomes that are community focussed, nature-based and long-lasting.”

Greater Wellington’s Ruamāhanga catchment manager Pete Huggins says, “Our flood operations team provides a critical service to the community, and they pride themselves on a job well done.

“Having advisory group members who can comment on relevant proposals and give honest constructive feedback is a key part of the process for us.”

Greater Wellington will be hosting open nights in Masterton (17 February) and Martinborough (24 February) to share information and answer questions from those interested in applying.

Applications from across the Wellington region are also open for the Farming Reference Group.

“This group will comprise of farmers and farming experts who can advise the Environment and Climate Committee on matters including soil conservation, pest plants and animals and biodiversity protection and enhancement,” says Cr Staples.

“So much of our work as the region’s environmental authority is done alongside the farming community. There are 813,500 hectares of diverse and beautiful land in this region, and farmers have a wealth of knowledge and experience that is invaluable to our council’s protection of that land.”

Applications for all advisory groups close Friday 27 February. To learn more or apply, visit our advisory bodies page.