Information for the 1998/99 year is presented on the 28 community
schemes managed in Wairarapa by the Wellington Regional Council,
including the Ruamahunga.

This past year has been one of contrasts. The serious drought of the
previous year lingered on well into 1999 in parts of the eastern hill country,
while large floods (up to 80 years’ return period), occurred in the western
rivers during September and October. These caused significant damage.