Wairau Valley couple Brian Williams and Kay Hannam run the Wai-natur Naturist Park for six months every summer. It could also better protect the Wairau River, which he says has been “abused” by vineyards over the past decade. “I feel between the economic gains of vineyard expansion and gravel extraction [at the Wairau River], we lose out as individuals. We’re always their second consideration.”While the concerns of valley residents often attract council attention, political parties seem less interested. CHLOE RANFORD/LDR Waihopai Valley farmer Murray Chapman with some of his goats.

Source: Stuff September 20, 2020 01:52 UTC