The proposed expansion of the Ventia Puketona Quarry threatens private land, historic culturally sensitive lands and taonga, important watershed feeding the Waitangi catchment, local biodiversity, community wellbeing, and our ecological heritage. Located in an area rich with native wildlife and plants, this proposed move would result in the loss of natural habitats and disrupt the balance of our ecosystem.
The delicate environmental balance in Puketona is home to numerous bird species and native flora, which could be irreparably damaged by heavy machinery operations and increased activity. The landscape of this beautiful area, treasured by locals and visitors alike, will be altered forever.  The proposed extraction site lies in an important water catchment and wetland tributary that feeds directly to the Waitangi River and important drinking water source and chemicals related to quarry activity will contaminate this.
Private landowners risk losing not only their land but also their peace and privacy as the expansion plans encroach on personal properties. This could lead to a reduction in property values and quality of life as noise and dust pollution increase. This is a failure of proper analysis and due process, undermining trust in council decision making. A lack of community input indicates a prioritisation of industry over sustainable and community friendly development. Council has both a legal and ethical obligation to ensure that any adverse effects of industrial activity are properly mitigated. This has not been done.

We are calling on the FNDC to commit to immediate, clear, pro-active communication with the public and all affected stake holders regarding any future intentions or proposals associated with the Puketona Quarry expansion given the substantial environmental, cultural, and social implications of quarry related activities, it is essential that the council keeps the community full informed.

We ask local authorities to reconsider and halt the quarry expansion plans. Let us preserve Puketona's unique environment, protect private land rights, and maintain a high quality of life for residents. Your support by signing this petition is crucial in preventing this potentially devastating project.