As another drought threatens Hawke's Bay, Federated Farmers says it's time to put aside the delay tactics and negativity and get on with building the Ruataniwha Dam.
This summer has once again illustrated the need for water storage as rivers and aquifers run low, with the Havelock North water contamination crisis further exacerbating the region's water shortage.
Meanwhile, bores are reportedly running dry, posing implications for farmers and businesses.
"It's getting to a stage now where surely it's obvious the dam is in the interests of everyone who cares about the Bay's future environment and economy. The only way we can potentially achieve that is with water storage," says Federated Farmers' Hawke's Bay provincial president Will Foley.
"NIWA has confirmed we've just had the hottest year on record in the Bay, and the immediate outlook is showing little rain ahead."