KEY POINTS:
Environment Minister Trevor Mallard has decided not to call in Meridian Energy's proposal to build a dam on the Mokihinui River on the West Coast.
The call-in process short circuits the resource consent process, replacing local authority procedures with a tribunal or a special panel.
Under a call-in, applications can also be sent straight to the Environment Court.
Meridian lodged its applications with Buller District Council and West Coast Regional Council.
The councils asked Mr Mallard to call in the applications.
"I have decided not to intervene," he said today.
"I am satisfied that the councils have the capacity to hear and decide the applications."
Mr Mallard said he knew the local authorities were concerned about the cost of potential appeals to the Environment Court, but that was not a factor for him to consider.
- NZPA
