- Hon Shane Jones
- Hon Mark Patterson
A project to restore Northland's largest lake, Lake Ōmāpere, will receive a $3 million grant from the Government's Regional Infrastructure Fund, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson say.
"Restoring Lake Ōmāpere will contribute to a more resilient water system and economic development in the region," Mr Jones says.
The funding will support enabling work for the project including regulatory approvals, road access, the construction of a weir to control water levels, and design work for future water storage infrastructure.
"The project will go a long way towards improving Northland's water and economic resilience but also recognises that for generations, local communities have regarded Lake Ōmāpere as a taonga. Restoring the lake's health is about honouring that connection while supporting communities, businesses and future development.
"This investment is an important step towards realising that long-term vision," Mr Jones says.
Mr Patterson says reliable water supply is critical for land to remain productive during dry periods.
"By helping advance this project, we're supporting the long-term resilience of the region and its ability to respond to future water challenges, as well as helping revive a precious taonga," Mr Patterson says.
"A healthy Lake Ōmāpere has the potential to support local communities by enabling strengthened food production and creating opportunities for Māori economic development in Northland."
The first stage of the Lake Ōmāpere project, called He wai ora; he iwi ora (if the water is well, the people are well), is expected to cost around $5.9m, with funding contributions from multiple partners. The project is being led by Lake Ōmāpere GP Limited on behalf of the Lake Ōmāpere Trust.
