Viewpoint – Spring has sprung!

While it’s true that this season of new beginnings sometimes feels like a bit of sunshine between downpours, there is some cause for optimism in Auckland’s rural north. In this column, however, I would like to touch on a couple of issues on which I feel a bit less sunny. Partly this is so that you know these are on my radar and I’m working on them, along with some very good local people, and partly as an update on what’s happening.

The first could be summed up by the phrase “wastewater issues”, which actually encapsulates three separate but related challenges.

The big picture shows that we need greater wastewater capacity to service the growing population in and around Warkworth, as well as further afield. Housing requires supporting infrastructure, so we need to invest in these systems. Whereas local government funding has been tight for a few years now, some developers have made it clear that they are willing and able to undertake the building of the necessary infrastructure, etc. on their own dime. This seems to me an excellent compromise solution, provided that they can do the job consistent with Watercare’s requirements, which should surely not be too difficult.

Another wastewater-related issue is that semi-regular discharges of sewage into local water bodies – and ultimately into the Mahurangi – pose a major risk to public health. From the perspective of oyster farmers, whose businesses rely on the certainty of clean water in the harbour, this is a massive burden. And, of course, jeopardising such an important sector as aquaculture, and its export and tourism potential, is deeply problematic. I’ve been working with some of these shellfish growers and Watercare to try to ensure proper warning is given in the short term … and, of course, that the issue is resolved in the medium to long term.

Third, the issue dear to the hearts of Warkworth’s retail streets is the placement of new pipeline infrastructure. With local businesses having faced very difficult conditions in the past few years (covid-era government policies, recession, cost-of-living crisis), it will be crucial to ensure that there isn’t disruption to a level that could see more shut up shop. I’m in touch with Watercare, others in Auckland Council and One Mahurangi on the issue, exploring whether any options are available to minimise the impact. We need the long-term gain of the investment, but with as little short-term pain as possible.
Finally, I should highlight that the excellent local community organisation that is Homebuilders has been doing great things for the people of this area, as many readers of Mahurangi Matters will know. I have contacted the relevant government minister to seek explanation – and am lobbying for reversal – of a recent decision that would see the current level of funding not sustained. I will continue to advocate on this issue, as I know how much their services mean to the area.