The Banks Peninsula water zone is made up of eroded volcanic domes that have been breached by the sea. Its catchments are short, steep and prone to flash flooding. The peninsula is reliant on rainfall to keep the creeks running and storage tanks and ponds full. Groundwater resources are limited and every summer settlements such as Akaroa experience water restrictions.
It has always been an important place and food basket for Ngāi Tahu. Four rūnanga are present on Banks Peninsula – Te Hapu ō Ngāti Wheke/Rāpaki, Te Rūnanga o Koukourarata, Te Rūnanga o Ōnuku and Te Rūnanga o Wairewa.
Zone news and events
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Water conservation
Our water is too precious to waste; it is up to everyone to use it wisely.
Local projects and priorities
The enhancement of ecosystem health, indigenous biodiversity and recreation is at the heart of action on the ground in the Banks Peninsula water zone.
Your natural environment
Discover the natural environment in the Banks Peninsula water zone.
Banks Peninsula water zone committee
Find out who your water zone committee members are and meet your on-the-ground zone delivery team.
Meet your central Environment Canterbury team
See local staff working in central Canterbury and how to contact them.
Can I swim here
Find out about water quality monitoring at popular swimming sites and learn about our summer monitoring.
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- Find out more about our portfolio work.
- Find out more about our unique ecosystem.
- View upcoming meetings.
- Information for farmers in Banks Peninsula