A hui to discuss water issues in the region will now be held sometime at the end of April or early May, with drinking water identified as a priority topic.
Initially planned for March, the symposium was announced last December by Hawke's Bay Regional Council chairman Rex Graham, Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule and Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated chairman Ngahiwi Tomoana, who would jointly convene the event.
Mr Yule said yesterdaythat the exact date was unclear as yet, with delays caused while finding a venue. He said that a lot of work had been under way setting the themes for the hui which, due to its extensive nature, may end up being held during two days.
"It will combine many issues. We want to give the public a broad understanding of the science around both surface and groundwater, but we have clearly elevated drinking water as a priority."
As well as considering the findings of the Government Inquiry into the Havelock North water contamination outbreak, which were due to be released by the inquiry panel on March 31, the hui would also cover other water issues such as public concern about water bottling plants, the GNS report, and the TANK process regarding the Heretaunga aquifer.