By Nicki HarperThe gallery was full at the start of the government inquiry into the Havelock North water contamination crisis this morning, taking place at the Hastings District Court. After a karakia by Ngati Kahungunu kaumatua Jerry Hapuku, Hastings District Council water services manager Brett Chapman appeared before the inquiry panel of Lyn Stevens, QC, former Director-General of Health Dr Karen Poutasi and Wellington city engineer Anthony Wilson. Under questioning from barrister Nathan Gedye, Mr Chapman confirmed that the outbreak was probably caused by sheep faceces from two paddocks near the Brookvale Road bores. The inquiry then explored the risks that were in existence, both to the Brookvale Road bores and the underground aquifer, and what the Hastings District Council knew of those risks. The inquiry will continue today, and continue for the next two to three weeks.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 29, 2017 22:12 UTC