Ruakaka Lagoon Scheme Not Decided

Northern Advocate, 13 May 1939, Page 5

Ruakaka Lagoon Scheme Not Decided

Further reference to the suggested scheme for a new outlet for the Ruakaka lagoon was made by Mr J. Norris, County Engineer, in his monthly report to the Whangarei County Council yesterday. “I have surveyed the outlet creek, and find that 44 chains of creek require cleaning out .and grading to give six feet reduction in height of the present water level in the lagoon,” said Mr Norris.

“This would provide 11 inches fall per chain which is about right for discharge' channels. “As the creek bottom is in sand, and the diversion shows sand on the surface, I would expect maintenance to be an expensive recurring matter, and more especially so if a creek alignment were adhered to. The construction of a channel either in the creek bed or by diversion presents little difficulty, but the maintenance of the channel is a work I do not recommend the council to accept until it is proved a reasonable undertaking. Not Favoured. “The settlers’ offer seems somewhat nebulous, and a definite contract would be desirable. The sand dunes encroach on the creek on the eastern side,' and any construction in creek improvement would upset the stability now lightly held by marram grass, and silting trouble is to be expected. A creek diversion would obviate some of the trouble but it still leaves a silting to be faced.” “I don’t think the council should undertake maintenance on the settlers’ terms” said Mr Norris, when the matter was being discussed. “The Public Works Department requires a guarantee from the county, and the county requires one from the settlers,” remarked Mr J. A. S. MacKay, county chairman. “I don’t like the look of it,” commented Cr. A. J. McKay. “What would happen if the property changed hands?”

Mr Mac Kay explained that the sale of the land would not offset the agreement. Cr. McKay then suggested that the council call a meeting at which the settlers could discuss the matter with the council. This step is to be taken.