Approximately 88,000 tonnes of woody debris were removed from Tairāwhiti beaches by the Gisborne District Council recovery team and contractors this year.
That is the equivalent of 2933 logging trucks.
Woody debris programme manager Rod Sheridansaid the initiative was part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of coastal areas, and to maintain and enhance their natural ecosystem and beauty.
“I’m pleased to inform our community that this work continues in the lead-up to Christmas, with work at Waipiro Bay now under way and work about to commence at Makorori and Wainui beaches.”
Work began at Makorori on Friday.
The team will then move to Wainui, where work to remove large woody debris around the Hamanatua Stream will start.
“At these locations, we will be targeting large logs that pose a risk to people and our environment.
“The community may notice that smaller debris is left behind. We are taking this approach to maximise our funding and ensure that we can remove as much risk as possible from our beaches.”
The debris from these two beaches will be taken to Judds for treatment.
Work at Waipiro Bay was expected to be completed by Saturday.
The debris will be put into piles for high oxygen burning. Burning may take longer depending on the weather.
“As always, our team of contractors will work hard to complete this work on time and to a high standard, avoiding any damage to the shoreface at the top of the beach or dunes.
“However, all work is weather-dependent, and timeframes may change if disrupted by unfavourable weather or tidal conditions.”
Sheridan said temporary access restrictions may be in place during the removal process to ensure public safety.
“We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we carry out this work.
Timing has yet to be confirmed, but the council also hopes to start work at Karaka Bay, Anaura Beach, Whāngārā Beach and the Pakarae River mouth this summer.
Gaining skills through council cadet programme
Three Tairāwhiti people have gained new skills and confidence after successfully completing a cadet programme with Gisborne District Council.
The programme - a partnership between the council and Ministry of Social Development (MSD) - focuses on supporting local employment needs through practical training for participants.
Director of internal partnerships and protection James Baty said council had been navigating a challenging labour market, refining recruitment strategies and focusing on attracting and retaining top talent.
“There is a challenge in bridging the gap between available job opportunities and the skills or readiness of local individuals to fill those roles.”
Baty said the partnership with MSD aimed to address the gap by providing practical training and support to jobseekers and facilitating their transition into local jobs.
“It’s about getting our local people into local jobs. We’re incredibly proud of our cadets and the dedication they’ve shown throughout the programme.”
Candidates began the programme early in October.
Anri Puia and Timana Pokoati were placed with theatres and Joseph Moeke with the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Baty said the success of the programme highlighted the importance of community partnerships in addressing local employment needs.
Compliance staff to visit campsites
Gisborne District Council is reminding summer campers that compliance staff will be out and about checking that the rules are being followed. “We’ll be visiting summer camping sites this holiday season to ensure compliance with our bylaws,” the council said in a release. “Staff will be checking for permits and compliance. “We encourage everyone to look after our environment, so we can keep beaches safe and clean for everyone to enjoy. “We ask all campers to please take all rubbish when you leave, don’t light fires, keep dogs leashed, lock campervans when not attended. “Finally you must bring a chemical toilet - one toilet for every eight people and empty your wastewater at the dump station (please note this isn’t a spot to dump your rubbish or recycling).”
‘Significant progress’ on Hill Rd wall
Contractors remain on track to complete work on the Hill Rd retaining wall in Whataupoko by early February.
“Anyone who’s been past lately will have seen significant progress with contractors expecting the wall structure to be 80 percent finished by Christmas break on December 20,” the council said.
Damage was caused by a landslip activated before Cyclone Gabrielle, causing major land movement, and resulting in the evacuation of surrounding properties. “Contractors will be back on site by January 13.”
