On 23 February 2023, the Government announced a Ministerial Inquiry into Land Use (MILU) causing woody debris, including forestry slash, and sediment-related damage in Te Tairāwhiti, Tūranganui-a-Kiwa and Te Wairoa regions.
Published: Wednesday, 15 March 2023 | Rāapa, 15 Poutūterangi, 2023
This Inquiry will look at past and existing land-uses and investigate:
- storm damage and its causes
- current practices
- regulatory and policy settings.
It will include the impact of storm damage caused by woody debris (including forestry slash) and sediment on communities, livestock, buildings, and the environment. It will also look at associated economic drivers and constraints. The report is due with the Minister for the Environment and the Minister of Forestry by 30 April 2023.
Te Puni Kōkiri encourages whānau, especially in Te Tairāwhiti, Tūranganui-a-Kiwa and Te Wairoa regions, to understand the basis of the Ministerial Inquiry and have an opportunity to make a submission.
Whakawhiti kōkero
You’re invited to have your say by providing your feedback before by 6 April 2023. The Panel is holding a series of public engagements and community hui that you are welcome to attend.
The meetings are being held as follows:
- Monday March 20, 10 am to 12.30pm - Awatere Marae, Te Araroa.
- Monday March 20, 3pm to 5.30pm - Uepohatu Marae, Whakarua Park, Ruatoria.
- Tuesday 21 March, 6 pm to 8.30pm - Ngatapa Rugby Clubrooms, Patutahi.
- Wednesday March 22, 10 am to 12 noon - Waikanae Surf Club, 280E Grey Street, Gisborne.
- Wednesday March 22, 4 pm to 6.30pm - Reynolds Hall, Uawa.
- Monday March 27, 6pm – 8.30pm - Wairoa War Memorial, 103 Queen Street, Wairoa.
- Tuesday March 28, 9am to 12 noon - EIT Council Room, Palmerston Road, Gisborne. Drop in sessions — 15 minute slots.
- Wednesday March 29, 12:30pm – 2pm - Tokomaru Bay. Online, RSVP below to receive a link.
People wishing to attend any of the meetings should RSVP to ministeriallanduseinquiry@mfe.govt.nz.