Matakitaki hydro study
Network Tasman has commenced a pre-feasibility study in order to evaluate hydro electricity generation options on the Matakitaki and Glenroy rivers. Preliminary work has shown that flows on the Glenroy are insufficient for generation, but they believe that some sites on the Matakitaki have potential for further investigation.
Possible sites under consideration are:
- Blue Rock – near the swingbridge in the Middle Matakitaki run
- Horse Bridge – where the road bridge crosses the river on the way up to the Glenroy and the Maruia Saddle
- Wheeler’s Creek and/or Mammoth Flat – upstream of Horse Bridge
Each of these options would involve a dam, and the flooding of the river above the dam. The attached pdf shows the affected areas. Most of the middle Matakitaki run would be under a lake if the Blue Rock proposal proceeds.
If after the pre-feasibility study the Network Tasman board chooses to proceed with a further investigation of one or more sites, then they will undertake a full feasibility study which would involve further research and design, and maybe then an eventual Resource Consent application.
At this time as part of the pre-feasibility study Network Tasman is seeking views from people who would be affected by any of the schemes. A consultant, The Lawless Edge, is helping compile community views. A comment form is contained within the attached pdf. Alternatively, send a letter, or an email, or ring their consultant. Any feedback should be received by the consultants on or before 15 July.
You can contact their consultants as follows:
Peter Lawless 03 539 1074
Barbara Graves 03 544 2247
P O Box 303, Nelson
We encourage all river users to comment. In your submission, please tell them why you value the Matakitaki; how often you use the river, and the runs you use – and why you think they should leave it alone!!
I am very keen to get a copy of any submission you make – please send it to me via our PO Box 4476, Christchurch or by email – conservation@whitewater.org.nz
Hurunui Water Conservation Order
The NZ Recreational Canoeing Association and Fish and Game have jointly applied to the Ministry for the Environment for a water conservation order on the Hurunui River to protect the river and keep it in its natural state.
The hearing has now closed, and we await the Tribunal's decision.
Graeme Wilson
Conservation Officer
The Whitewater Canoe Club places a very high importance on advocating for the preservation of natural waterways in New Zealand.
All this will go under a lake if kayakers and conservationists don’t work together.