Canterbury/Waitaha has a diverse range of environments with unique biodiversity, including the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri-o-te-moana, foothills, plains, braided rivers, wetlands, coastal lagoons and estuaries, dune systems, rocky peninsulas, and open ocean.

Waitaha is the largest region in the country, covering approximately 4.2 million hectares, and around 800 kilometres of coastline. This large area and its diverse landforms and varied climates mean that the region has an extensive and diverse range of ecosystems that support many species of plants, animals, and micro-organisms.

Like the rest of New Zealand/Aotearoa, there has been a significant loss in indigenous biodiversity in Waitaha. This has primarily occurred through the loss and modification of habitat because of extensive deforestation, burning, drainage, settlement, and development, and the introduction of invasive pests. Here we look at the biodiversity issues facing our region that inform our planning framework.

Regional roles and policies

Responsibilities and policies for managing biodiversity.