Growers dismiss toxic soil fears

Copper and arsenic has been detected at higher than normal levels on sites yet to be developed in Havelock North (Arataki) and on the outskirts of Hastings (Lyndhurst).

Arataki has already been rezoned to allow residential developments, and some parts – not tested – have been built on. Lyndhurst is going through the process at present.

A report by Pattle Delamore Partners – reported in The Dominion Post and presented to Hastings District Council yesterday – found a long history of intensive horticultural use could mean an accumulation of pesticides in the soil.

But Frimley fruitgrower Alastair Kenny, who has owned an orchard in the Lyndhurst block area for 13 years, flatly discounted the fears.

Read More - Opens in a new window