Mayor calls for better solutions as flooding threat grows in Westland

Westland Mayor Helen Lash has called for more innovative solutions to combat the growing threat of flooding in the region, as a new study highlights the risks posed by rising water levels in the Waiho River.

The study, conducted by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), found that the river has been rising at an alarming rate over the past decade. The findings have raised concerns among local residents and officials, who are now calling for more long-term planning to address the issue.

Mayor Lash emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to flood management in the area. 'We can't keep relying on temporary fixes like building higher levees. We need to think about the long-term impact of climate change and how it will affect our region,' she said.

The report also highlighted the potential risks to key infrastructure, including State Highway 6 and Lake Mapourika, which are located near the river. Officials are now working to develop a new flood management plan that includes both short-term and long-term strategies.

Local residents have also expressed concerns about the potential impact on their homes and businesses. Many have reported seeing increased flooding in recent years, and some have already taken steps to protect their properties.

Mayor Lash said she is hopeful that the new plan will help to mitigate the risks and ensure the safety of the community. 'We need to work together to find a solution that will protect our homes, our businesses, and our way of life,' she said.

Lake Mapourika sits just by State Highway 6, on the West Coast.

The report also highlighted the need for increased investment in flood protection infrastructure, as well as the importance of community education and awareness about the risks posed by flooding.

Mayor Lash said she is committed to working with local officials and residents to develop a plan that will help to protect the community from the impacts of flooding. 'We can't afford to ignore this issue any longer. We need to take action now to ensure the safety of our people and our region,' she said.

Local officials are now working to develop a new flood management plan that includes both short-term and long-term strategies. The plan is expected to be finalized in the coming months.

Westland mayor Helen Lash is calling for better solutions than yet another stopbank.

The report also highlighted the need for increased investment in flood protection infrastructure, as well as the importance of community education and awareness about the risks posed by flooding.

Mayor Lash said she is committed to working with local officials and residents to develop a plan that will help to protect the community from the impacts of flooding. 'We can't afford to ignore this issue any longer. We need to take action now to ensure the safety of our people and our region,' she said.

Local officials are now working to develop a new flood management plan that includes both short-term and long-term strategies. The plan is expected to be finalized in the coming months.