Flood resilience project provides local employment and training

The strengthening of the stopbank network at key locations in the lower Manawatū area is a key project for the Horizons Regional Council. The first stage of this project includes upgrading rock lining in Foxton to give additional protection to nearby homes and the community, as well as improving protection to an existing walkway which is a popular recreational path. To date the rock lining has been completed, with the walkway to be reinstated by the end of November.

In addition to building community resilience to severe weather events and climate change, this project has provided local employment and development opportunities.

Local contractors Alan G Gibson were awarded the contract and one of their staff, Pete Harper who was previously a truck driver and small digger operator, has had the opportunity to upskill in the more difficult area of rock placement. Pete says it’s the first job that he’s had a technical responsibility for and while it’s been challenging, it’s also been really rewarding as he’s grown in confidence. He’s also one of six staff from Alan G Gibson who will be undertaking a 4WD course organised by Horizons to better equip them for working on rural river sites in the future.

Source:

https://www.horizons.govt.nz/