US kayak expert assists Contact Energy in Otago

2004-11-11T13:33:00+13:00

The ODT reports that Olympic slalom paddler Scott Shipley is in Otago to assist Contact Energy in resource consent negotiations with Central Otago Whitewater. Shipley, who is also a professional engineer with experience of building whitewater courses in the USA, descended the Kawarau river and will be looking at other rivers in the region. Central Otago Whitewater are seeking mitigation for the loss of recreational amenity resulting from the Clyde dam, and in particular the drowning of rapids at Bannockburn, Cromwell Gap and the world-class Sargood’s Weir. A whitewater facility in the Hawea river is one option being considered, though it remains to be seen whether Contact Energy will meet the costs involved.