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A road block stopped
several logging trucks carting for Te Tai Tokerau Forest Limited today.
Locals fed up with the ongoing health and safety issues
caused by heavy traffic passing on the metal roads
say they're left with no other choice.
It's an issue that's been presented
to district and regional councils over the years,
but locals say they've been ignored.
These logging trucks
were on their way to Whangarei this morning,
but were brought to a halt
when local protesters blocked the way.
We want them to turn around
and go through Motatau.
Locals even pre-warned the local council
about their intention to block the roads at 8am.
Police were called on to the scene,
but the locals are fed up
with the dust disturbed by the trucks,
leaving their properties cloaked in filth,
impacting too on their health.
Hancock Forest Management wouldn't front up.
But locals' anger towards the council was only amplified.
The worst thing for us is that our land was taken
so that they could build a road without our consent.
The land is still ours lawfully.
They want the roads tar sealed,
even if only in front of their houses and business.
The dust settled a bit today,
but locals say if the council continues to ignore them,
they are ready to fight another day.
Peata Melbourne, Te Karere.