Hawke's Bay farmers need to discuss the possible effects of climate change on the region's coastal land, Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule says.
Federated Farmers Hawke's Bay held their annual general meeting at Vidal's restaurant last night. Mr Yule, a guest speaker, told farmers a discussion on climate change was necessary. "We've got to have a philosophical question in the region: do we think climate change is happening, and if so, what does it mean?"
Mr Yule said possible 1m sea level rises and 1.5m storm surges could pose significant risks to the region's coastline.
"It's unpopular and it's a difficult conversation to have," he conceded.
Mr Yule also suggested public perception on suitable river water quality standards was unrealistic.