Council seeks public feedback on stormwater maps

Kāpiti residents are being invited to look over a series of maps Council engineers have developed that predict where stormwater would go if there was a big flood.

Group Manager Infrastructure Services Sean Mallon says the maps, which are being made public this week, are based on what is likely to happen in a 1 in a 100 year event.

“We’re talking about a biggie here like the storm that hit Paekākāriki in 2003.”

Mr Mallon says Council is confident it’s got its modeling right but is keen to get feedback from urban property owners that could add to its knowledge.

“We know there are many Kāpiti residents who have lived through big floods who have a very good idea where the water goes.  We can predict it on paper but it would be really useful to have access to that observational information.” 

“Looking over the maps will also give people a good idea of what areas in the district are at risk in the event of a major storm.”

Mr Mallon says the new mapping project could have implications for individual property flood designations so it is important people take the time to look over the maps and see where their properties fit in.

“We’re already undertaking some major upgrading of the stormwater systems across the district and there’s a lot more to be done.  Because of the costs, we can’t do it all at once so we are hoping the public feedback will help us set priorities and plan our future work programmes.”

The stormwater maps will be available for viewing at public meetings being held across the district over the next few weeks.  Venues and times are available from the library and Council service centers.  They will also be published in local newspapers and on the KCDC website www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/haveyoursay

The maps will be on display at district libraries from February 10.