A second major opponent of a new $900 million power scheme on the lower Waitaki River is withdrawing its opposition after reaching an agreement with the project's proponent, Meridian Energy Ltd.
Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu and its Arowhenua, Moeraki and Waihao runanga will withdraw their Environment Court appeal against the north bank tunnel concept scheme and work with Meridian to complete a mitigation agreement.
They had been in discussions for some time, to the stage where it was known an agreement would be reached.
Further discussions were needed to complete the details, which would then be made public.
Last month, Meridian reached agreement with the Waitaki Protection Trust, another major appellant.
As a result, the trust decided not to oppose the scheme in the Environment Court.
Meridian, Ngai Tahu and its runanga said last night the discussions to mitigate the scheme's effects were positive.
"Ngai Tahu has agreed to withdraw its appeal to the Environment Court on the basis that discussion will continue and the belief by both parties that the outcome for the Waitaki River will be better at the conclusion of the discussions," representatives said.
Runanga representatives were confident Meridian was listening to their concerns and had decided to show good faith by withdrawing court action.
Ngai Tahu expected to work collaboratively on initiatives to mitigate the project's effects, particularly any adverse effects on values, identity and practices of Ngai Tahu.
Meridian chief executive Tim Lusk said the company's relationships with Ngai Tahu and the three runanga were important.
"This agreement shows working together collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for the cultural and the environmental values of the river is preferable to going to court," he said.
