Regional Council says no to rubbish dumping

The Regional Council is taking a harder line on managing the region’s environment by reducing access to one of Napier’s popular river access points at Guppy Road.

After ongoing problems with rubbish dumping, vandalism, stock theft, and burnt-out cars at Taradale’s Guppy Road access, the Regional Council staff who manage this area have reluctantly agreed to close vehicle access to Tūtaekurī River downstream of the expressway from 12 August.

Regional Council Team Leader for River Schemes Antony Rewcastle says he’s disappointed the access has to be closed to vehicles along Guppy Road downstream of the expressway.

“It’s unfortunate to have to exclude vehicles, but it takes a lot of staff and police time and ratepayer money to clean up and monitor, so we’ve made the decision to limit access,” says Mr Rewcastle.

“We’ve made sure that all other users, including walkers, cyclists, fishers, motorcyclists, and swimmers, still have good access to enjoy the river from the end of Guppy Road.

“It’s a great spot for swimming, cycling, fishing, and dog walking, and it’s a real shame that a small number of people have caused problems.”

The Regional Council is currently consulting on a plan for Public Use of Rivers to cater for various stakeholders which value these areas. Since 1996 the Regional Council has enhanced many of Hawke’s Bay’s river areas by improving entrances, providing picnic facilities, and establishing areas and trails for activities such as trail biking and horse riding.

The Regional Council manages access to more than 30 public access points to rivers across the Heretaunga and Ruataniwha Plains.

To let us know what you think about river access and for more information head to hbrc.govt.nz, #riveraccess.

Image: This gate access, downstream of the expressway, at Guppy Rd will be closed to vehicles from 12 August. Access for all other users will be through the gate to the right as seen in the picture.

8 August 2019

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