Requested Information:

“Under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (LGOIMA), I am formally requesting detailed information regarding flood protection measures for the Porirua Stream. This inquiry is particularly pertinent given recent flooding on the East Coast of the
North Island, where the Hawke's Bay Regional Council has faced significant criticism for their management of local river levels, which is alleged to have contributed to residential flooding.
In light of these events and the heightened public concern, it is essential to ascertain what proactive measures the Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC) has in place to mitigate the risk of a similar situation occurring along the Porirua Stream as it flows through Tawa and Porirua.
Upon reviewing the Greater Wellington Regional Council's Long Term Plan 2021-2031, it is apparent that there is a considerable focus on the Hutt River. The RiverLink project, for instance, is a partnership between Hutt City Council, Greater Wellington, and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, working together with Mana Whenua partners – Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Taranaki Whānui ki te Upoko o Te Ika. RiverLink is expected to safeguard residents from large flood events that could affect up to 3,000 homes, five schools, and 600 businesses, potentially causing an estimated $1.1 billion worth of damage across the community. The project includes significant transport improvements, such as a new Melling interchange, relocating the Melling train station, and enhancing walking and cycling links, with construction expected to be completed by 2026. This extensive focus contrasts with the apparent lack of specific plans for flood protection for the Porirua Stream.

Given Wellington City’s expectation of population growth by 50,000 – 80,000 people over the next 30 years, the Council’s strategy includes intensification in the central city and around existing town centres, and developing new urban areas in Lincolnshire Farm, Upper Stebbings,
and Glenside West. Specifically, the Upper Stebbings and Glenside West area is planned to accommodate approximately 6,000 new homes, which is expected to bring an additional 16,000 to 20,000 people to the area. This development heightens the urgency for effective flood protection measures for the Porirua Stream, which runs through these regions upriver from Tawa.
I am requesting the following information:
1. What flood protection measures are currently implemented by GWRC for the Porirua Stream to address extra heavy rainfall events?
2. What specific adaptations or changes has GWRC undertaken in response to the increasing likelihood of extreme weather events due to climate change?
3. What long-term strategies does GWRC have in place to address the evolving challenges of flood risk management for the Porirua Stream through Tawa and Porirua, and how do these strategies integrate with broader regional and national climate resilience plans?
A swift and comprehensive response to this request is necessary for assessing the success of existing flood management strategies and the region's preparedness for future extreme weather events."

For a copy of the attachment relating to this request please email democratic.services@gw.govt.nz