Ruataniwha Dam - 'our biggest concern is our river, not jobs'

The Ruataniwha dam has been hotly debated between communities in Hawke's Bay. The big question is will it have a negative impact on traditional Maori values and relationship with water? Pere Wihongi has more. Tukituki is the mighty river, and the construction of the Ruataniwha Dam has split the community. We don't see any benefits of the dam. Tom Mulligan is the chairman of Matahiwi Marae, 1km away from the river itself. They haven't approached us or haven't invited us to consult. If we were invited then we would come. But, the Chief Executive of Te Roopu Kaitiaki Wai Maori says otherwise and that they have been trying to consult for a long time. Ratima adds there are countless benefits. People are asking if plans for the dam move forward, will there be jobs for Maori? Or will they be shut out? Our biggest concern is the health of our river, not employment. Construction could begin in December if the commission give consent. Pere Wihongi, Te Karere.