Green MP Jeanette Fitzsimons, Otago MP David Parker & Rakaia MP Brian Connell cordially invite you to a briefing by Waitaki First Inc on the impact of Project Aqua on the mighty Waitaki River and its environs.
12.30pm sharp, Tuesday 16 September 2003
Beehive Theatrette, Parliament Buildings Wellington
Speakers
Bruce Parker
Chair - Waitaki River Users Liaison Group: overview of Project Aqua's impact on the physical environment and recreational use of the river.
Dr Ken Hughey
Lincoln University: Impact on bird life nesting on braided rivers - endangered species?
Dr Gerald
Carrington Otago University: Secure and sustainable energy alternatives to Project Aqua.
Dr Helen Brookes
Chair, Waitaki First: Why Waitaki First - The National Good Paradox.
Jay Graybill
Fish & Game NZ., Can Waitaki Sports Fisheries and Angling Be Retained?
After the presentations there will be time for questions. The meeting will finish at 2pm.
Waitaki First Inc has been established to oppose Project Aqua and thereby protect the ecology, amenities and culture values of the lower reaches of the Waitaki River. The Waitaki river is one of the few broad braided rivers in the world and the largest in the South Island. If it proceeds, Project Aqua will take over 70% of the water from the river and divert it through a 60 kilometre canal running down the south side of the river. In addition to all the impacts this would have on wildlife habitat, wetlands, fishing and other recreational activities the canal would cover around 1000 hectares of prime agricultural land and severely disrupt communities along the valley.
Waitaki First has funded the visit of the above speakers to Wellington because they believe the Waitaki river is a national treasure and that the Project Aqua proposal should be a national issue. We welcome your attendance.
RSVP is essential for visitors to the Parliamentary complex. Please confirm your attendance by email: bronwen [dot] summers [at] parliament [dot] govt [dot] nz, Ph: 470 6663 or Fax: 472 6003
