The residential area of Rotorua is not directly along the river, but the field that borders the houses is filled like a bowl when the waters rise. Major excavation work would be needed to address this recurring problem.

In July 2009, when flooding is imminent, some residents install 100m of Water-Gate© Flood Protection barrier, 50cm high.
It takes 3 men and 30 minutes to bring the 7 protection barriers into the field, unfold and attach the dams together.

Result: 15 houses sheltered.

The residents take turns during the night to keep an eye on the dam.
The day after the water recedes. It only remains to detach dams, dry them and store them … until next time.