Executive Summary          Full Report

 Project Abstract

This project aided the Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC) in collecting opinions from five stakeholder groups concerning management of the naturally flooding Lake Wairarapa in New Zealand. Our team conducted a total of twenty-nine interviews with the Rangitāne (Māori), Department of Conservation, South Wairarapa District Council, landowners, and recreational water users regarding the Blundell Barrage Gates which play a vital role in flood management. Interview discussions indicate that water quality, sources of pollution, water levels, flood management, and future operation of the barrage gates are controversial. We identified communication, collaboration, and education as three areas of focus for the GWRC as they continue to improve their management of the region.

Student Team

• Natalie L Diltz, ME
• Jena M Mazzucco, CM
• Austin D Scott, ME
• Jeffrey Allen Sirocki, CS

Sponsor

Greater Wellington Regional Council

Advisors

• Kinicki, Robert, CS
• Eddy, Bethel L., HU