I was surprised to read the article by Andrew Campbell stating that the Wairoa River has been shortlisted for a high performance centre for Canoe Racing NZ.
I would bring to your notice the report in October 2012 that the water quality in the river both at SH2 bridge and at McLaren Falls was ‘Poor'.
I did at the time contact Western Bay Council. 'Talk to Regional Council” so contacted them. 'It's a Public Health Issue.”
Waited in vain for the Notices to be posted at the same time, observed cattle in the river at Miles Lane reserve.
This river flows through farm land way up beyond the three power stations and acts as a farm run-off drain flowing into the inner harbour.
So how can this river be considered for water sports?

Peter Turner, Pyes Pa.