RLC August Sewerage Update

Despite the ongoing challenges, progress is tracking well with 60 installations completed and 76 properties booked for installation. Our prioritisation of Biolytix system installs for the next few months will be on completing those that have been booked.

While installations are underway, staff are continuing to meet with land owners to obtain archaeological consents and finalise individual locality plans.

Three Cultural Site Monitors are monitoring the on-site system installations at Kōmuhumuhu – Gisborne Pt. Ongoing support is being provided to Rotorua Lakes Council in the preparation of Heritage NZ authority applications for Kōmuhumuhu, Te Tuarae (Taurua Marae area), Matarēhua Pā (Waione and Moose Lodge area).

The Whenua Maori Project is progressing slowly but moving in a positive direction. Application has been made to the Māori Land Court for a Judicial Conference and receipt of our application has been notified. Rotorua Lakes Council is now awaiting guidance from the Māori Land Court on next steps.

Fulton Hogan advise that the poor winter weather has had a noticeable effect on our operations. Throughout June, 20 of the available 30 days recorded a measure of rainfall. To reduce the impact to lawn areas, we continue to utilise our ground protection mats and geofabric cloth. Grass reinstatement is near on unachievable through this period of the year. Fulton Hogan are committed to returning to these affected properties through the spring period to complete the lawn reinstatement.

Their focus has recently shifted to completing installs on those properties that have no groundwater challenge. These are predominantly properties away from the lakefront around the Gisborne Point/Kōmuhumuhu area and along State Highway 30. In the coming summer season (October – April) period, our main focus will be to return to low lying properties or closer to the lakefront.