Wellwood claims water crisis has ruined Yule's credibility

Guy Wellwood, Hastings mayoral candidate, addresses the audience about his policies and fresh ideas he will bring to the Hastings District Council. Photo/Duncan Brown

Hastings mayoral candidate Guy Wellwood has claimed that the water crisis in Havelock North damaged the reputation of current mayor Lawrence Yule.

In a public meeting in Hastings last night, lawyer Mr Wellwood claimed Mr Yule's credibility had been ruined and if he was elected he would reward the district by exterminating the water contamination forever.

When contacted for comment last night, Mr Yule said that it would be for the people to decide when it came to voting time.

"I did not cause the water contamination and have tried to make it safe and lead people through it."

He said how the public responded and the judgement they made was all in their hands, not his.

At the meeting Mr Wellwood said it was clear people were still scared by the whole event as a lot of questions, asked by the crowd of just under 50, were about water.

He promised the audience he would try and find a way to get a supply for the village that did not have to be chlorinated

"I am also going to focus on the three waters which include sewerage, drinking supply and storm water."

"I want to sort out the state of the Karamu Stream as it is currently a disgrace and is a key waterway on the outskirts of Havelock North."

He said friends of his went white baiting near the Clive River and saw a dead cat float past, which is water that comes from the Karamu Stream.

Mr Wellwood said he was focused on new ideas and initiatives after being criticised after the Hawke's Bay Today mayoral debate held earlier this month.

"People said I was too critical of Mr Yule but I just wanted to establish my credentials and prove why we needed a new mayor before I got in to everything else."

Other issues raised at the meeting was Mr Wellwood's "collaborative leadership approach", the rail between Gisborne and Napier and the hotel project in Havelock North.

After the meeting, Mr Wellwood said he was "thrilled" with how the evening went .