WATER BATTLE SITES Central Plains Water scheme: involves taking water from the Rakaia and Waimakariri rivers and storing it in a reservoir in the dammed Waianiwaniwa Valley. The water will be used to irrigate 60,000ha bounded by the rivers, SH1 and the Malvern foothills.

By STAFF, Herald A decision on Meridian's North Bank Tunnel proposal will be made within the next three months.

"We say we're doing this for those who can't. So many of our friends haven't grown old." That's Elly Smith's simple explanation for why she and her husband, Murray Smith, abandon their Paraparaumu home each spring to become part of the burgeoning group of retirees dubbed grey nomads.

By KEAST, John Fish and Game has questioned the need for a reduced minimum flow in the lower Waitaki River, as sought by proponents of the Hunter Downs irrigation scheme.

By STAFF, Herald Fish and Game has spoken out against the Hunter Downs Irrigation proposal -- concerned at damage to fisheries and water quality within the scheme's 40,000ha control area.