Resident update on flood risk and resilience strategy for Anzac Parade

Residents and property owners on Whanganui’s Anzac Parade are invited to another round of community meetings this month to get an update and provide input to the drafting of the resilience strategy for the area.
 

The update follows resident and stakeholder consultation in 2021, commissioned by Horizons Regional Council and led by Massey University, to consider local views and experiences in building shared understanding about Anzac Parade flood risk and resilience in a changing climate.

Horizons river management operations manager Kyle Russell says since the last round of resident meetings, Massey researchers have been working on more detailed analysis of options to improve flood resilience in the area.

“The meetings provide the opportunity for residents to discuss in more detail the nature and costs of options to increase community resilience along the most at-risk areas of Anzac Parade,” he says.

“This detail includes analysis of issues that affect the viability of the different options. For example, cost estimates for raising houses and legal, geo-technical, and climate change impacts on flood risk reduction interventions.

“These options are the foundation for the strategy being prepared. Massey will also outline next steps and timeframes for preparing the draft strategy and how residents and/or property owners can contribute further.”

The resident community meetings will take place at the Hakeke Community Centre and Library in Whanganui on Wednesday 20 April.

“There will be drop-in times available between 1-8.30pm and Massey would appreciate people registering for them via Hakeke on 022 689 2459,” says Mr Russell.

“Following these meetings with residents and homeowners, Massey will be presenting the strategy to Horizons, Whanganui District Council, and iwi authorities. There will also be more information to come regarding engagement with the wider public on the draft strategy – we anticipate this to take place in early May.

“Feedback from Anzac Parade stakeholders, tangata whenua, Te Rūnanga o Tūpoho, Whanganui District Council and key agencies within central government will all be incorporated into the strategy and recommendations presented.”

Further information about the meetings and the Anzac Parade resilience strategy can be found here. 

Massey University Professor Bruce Glavovic and Dr. Martín García Cartagena, both experts in natural hazards planning, flood risk reduction, and community resilience building are leading the project.