Waitaha/Canterbury has a network of urban areas, which vary in their size, role, and character. Ōtautahi/Christchurch is Aotearoa/New Zealand’s second largest city with a population of nearly...
https://www.ecan.govt.nz/your-region/plans-strategies-and-bylaws/what-we-know/urban-developmentDuring summer, we regularly monitor the water quality at nearly 100 popular swim spots in Waitaha Canterbury. We check for faecal contamination and toxic algae (cyanobacteria). Find out more
https://www.ecan.govt.nz/your-region/your-environment/water/swimming-water-qualityWith historical use and development, the ecological and biodiversity values of Canterbury’s braided rivers have deteriorated over time. Their ecosystems and habitats are threatened by weeds
https://www.ecan.govt.nz/your-region/your-environment/water/measuring-cwms-progress/natural-character-of-braided-riversA floodplain is the area of land next to a river or stream that is susceptible to flooding when rivers or streams overtop. Much of Waitaha/Canterbury is located on a floodplain and is prone to flood
https://www.ecan.govt.nz/your-region/your-environment/natural-hazards/floods/floodplain-managementA tsunami is a series of powerful waves caused by a sudden movement of the sea or lake floor or by something falling into the water. Most tsunamis are caused by large underwater earthquakes
https://www.ecan.govt.nz/your-region/your-environment/natural-hazards/tsunamisWith summer just around the corner, thousands of us will be heading out to enjoy our region’s stunning lakes and rivers. Whether you’re jet boating on the braided rivers or paddling close to shore...
https://www.ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2025/summers-calling-stay-safe-on-the-waterAs a consent holder, it is your responsibility to comply with the conditions of your resource consent for the sustainable management of our natural and physical resources. A resource consent has
https://www.ecan.govt.nz/do-it-online/resource-consents/after-your-consent-has-been-issued/your-responsibilitiesOur wallaby programme leader, Brent Glentworth, recently spotted something much rarer and far more welcome than a wallaby on the loose—a matuku-hūrepo or Australasian Bittern. This native bird
https://www.ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2025/secretive-bird-a-welcome-sign-in-waitarakao