Public Meeting Called Over Katikati Quarry Expansion Proposal

Environmental charity Project Parore is hosting a public meeting to discuss a proposed 50-hectare expansion of the J Swap Katikati Quarry, which is being considered under the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024. The Act, passed in December 2024, provides a permanent and more streamlined consenting pathway for resource consent and other approvals, with applications for new projects opening from February this year.

Project Parore chairman David Peters said the charity's focus is on identifying and managing any risks to the streams and forest surrounding the quarry. The quarry sits in the headwaters of the Uretara Stream and on the edge of a conservation park, making freshwater health and biodiversity the group's primary concern. A biodiversity audit covering the quarry and three affected watercourses is currently under way, though results will not be available before the meeting.

Peters said the meeting is open to everyone and will include a presentation from J Swap outlining their plans, followed by questions directed at the company and then from the public. Project Parore has said it will oppose the expansion if risks to the surrounding environment cannot be properly managed or mitigated.

The meeting will be held at St Paul's Presbyterian Church on Mulgan Street, Katikati, on Wednesday 23 April at 7pm.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).