Call for slash clean-up help

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Gisborne District Council is asking anyone in Tairāwhiti with the capacity, capability, and the right equipment to get large woody debris out of the region’s waterways to get in touch, and soon.

Chief executive Nedine Thatcher Swann said expressions of interest were wanted over the next two weeks.

“We need to understand how well-placed local contractors are in our region to work with the council to carry out this work, how soon they can do it over the next 12 months, and the method they have for treating the wood afterwards. For example, will it be chipped or some other method?”

Ms Thatcher Swann said large woody debris referred to fallen trees, branches or other wood material accumulated in waterways around the region — whether it got there naturally or through man-made factors.

“We need our waterways clear ahead of the next heavy rain event and the Government has invested heavily to get this done.

“This work is to reduce risk, safeguard our community and protect the integrity of critical infrastructure in waterways.”

More information can be found on the GDC website.

It would also be good news for Wainui Beach residents who have had to put up with a messy beach since February, unlike city beaches which have been cleared at times.

“The material at the Pare St end of Wainui Beach has been assessed,” MsThatcher Swann said.

“The overall volume is less than what has impacted other beaches. Right now the council is working through the areas prioritised for the clean-up of woody debris with the available funding.

“Once this is known, we will let the community know the plan and how this will be delivered.”