Rural discussion; talk needs to turn into action

There’s one month left for members of the rural community to comment on the Hastings District plan review of the Rural Discussion Document.

The plan was first notified in 1997 and, as rules and the land use context have changed over time, it’s now due for a comprehensive review.

District Plan Working Party chair Cr Mick Lester says the document has raised plenty of discussion amongst farmers and horticulturalists.

“The council understands it is a very busy time for farmers as they contend with harvest but they should consider putting pen to paper on the issues raised in the document.

“Comments can also be made on any other rural environmental issue which they feel needs to be addressed or reviewed.

“This plan is very important to our district and it’s critical Council gets feedback from a cross-section of the community” Cr Lester says.

The Rural Discussion document examines important issues, such as; the balance between the increasing number of people wanting to live on lifestyle blocks and retaining the vital economic benefits of agriculture, and competition between traditional pastoral farming and more diverse uses, such as packhouses or tourism.

“Anyone who is involved with the land should be prepared to play their part in the consultation process and not just leave it to someone else” Cr Lester says.

Submissions on the Rural Discussion Document close on Friday, March 18th.

For more information on the District Plan Review or a copy of the Rural Discussion Document go to www.hastingsdc.govt.nz/districtplan, call District Plan Review project leader Rowan Wallis on ph. 871 5000 or write to:

Rowan Wallis
Environmental Policy
Hastings District Council
Private Bag 9002
HASTINGS