“There is a revolt in the heartland and the Government better know that is the truth,” says Tararua District Mayor Tracey Collis.
Her words, delivered to a packed Dannevirke community hall on Wednesday evening, captured a fierce opposition to proposed tolls on Te Ahu a Turanga, a highway to replace the impassable Manawatū Gorge road.
Hundreds of locals gathered to voice their concerns about the proposed charges for the 24km stretch.
The proposed toll would see light vehicles charged $2.70 one-way, with heavier vehicles facing steeper fees.
The meeting follows a similar gathering in Woodville the previous week, as local anger grows over the toll proposal.
Watch the full report from Q+A’s Whena Owen, in the video above
Q+A with Jack Tame is made with the support of New Zealand On Air