The diesel leak that shut down the water supply of central North Island town Raetihi last year is set to lead to court for the parties involved.
Horizons Regional Council has completed its investigations into the diesel spill which contaminated the Makotuku River in October – with the decision made to initiate a prosecution against Ruapehu Alpine Lifts and Petroleum Services Limited.
Up to 19,000 litres of diesel leaked from a tank at the base of Turoa Ski Field into the stream.
“It is has been a lengthy and thorough investigation and it is now up to the Environment Court to decide on the timeframes for the next steps’” says Nic Peet, Horizons group manager strategy and regulation.
In early March, Raetihi residents returned to drawing their drinking water from the Makotuku River after taking from the Makara Stream in the interim period.
