Know your flood risk
Your chance of being affected by flooding and the potential severity of flooding varies significantly across Waitaha/Canterbury, and even from one property to the next.
You can use the information on this page to understand your own flood risk or contact us for a more in-depth assessment of the flood hazard at specific locations or properties.
Historic flood information
One of the best ways to know if your property or local area is prone to flooding is to look to the past. We take photos during and after major flood events to document affected areas.
Search for photos on our flood imagery register.
Flood monitoring
We record rainfall at approximately 80 sites, and water levels/flows at approximately 150 sites around Waitaha.
This is one of the largest networks of its kind in the country.
Our staff are on duty 24/7 to monitor rainfall and river flows and keep emergency response authorities, other agencies, and the public informed of observed and likely flood impacts.
We use the data collected from these sites to do flood frequency analysis, design and maintain flood protection schemes, and carry out flood modelling investigations.
- View our rainfall data
- View our river flow data
2018 floods - Ashburton River Hakatere, Lake Hood
Flood modelling
We use flood modelling to predict the extent and depth of flooding that may result from future events.
Flood modelling is not an exact science but provides our best estimates based on the data we have.
Modelling is prioritised in areas where people live and future development is likely to occur so flood modelling information isn’t available for all areas of Waitaha. If model results are not available for the area you are interested in, this doesn’t mean it isn’t susceptible to flooding.
You can view model results in our Flood Model Results app.
Flood hazard assessments
We provide site-specific flood hazard assessments for most parts of Waitaha.
We use historic flood information and flood modelling to outline the potential sources of flooding at the property, and the likely severity of flooding associated with relevant flood events. We can also provide advice on floor levels for new buildings to meet district planning requirements.
Assessments are usually requested by people looking to purchase a property, construct a new building or carry out a subdivision.
Request a flood hazard assessment.
Contact us if you have questions about how flooding might affect you.