Local projects and priorities

The vision for Waimakariri, which was developed with the community, is, “Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri, ā muri ake nei; for us and our children after us".

We work with landowners, community, groups and other organisations to undertake a number of actions in the zone which support the protection and enhancement of biodiversity, water quality, mahinga kai and more.

Read about some of the key projects and priorities for the zone on this page or contact us on 0800 324 636.

Key projects

Ashley River/Rakahuri vegetation clearance

The Ashley River/Rakahuri is a key feature of the North Canterbury landscape that poses a significant flood risk to the communities living on its floodplain. This project involves removing exotic vegetation (willow and brush weeds) choking a section of the river between Ashley Gorge and the Okuku River confluence, and in the Okuku River.

Find out more about the Rakahuri vegetation clearance project.

Waimakariri River flood protection at McIntoshs bend

The Waimakariri and Kaiapoi River stopbanks protect Kaiapoi township and the surrounding area from flooding. Completed in October 2021, this project consisted of rock works to strengthen existing rock protection around McIntoshs bend, additional rock protection along the lower Kaiapoi River and adjacent stopbank, and car park upgrades, a new toilet block and native planting.

Find out more about the McIntoshs bend project.

Plan Change 7 to the Canterbury Land and Water Regional Plan

Plan Change 7 to the Canterbury Land and Water Regional Plan has been developed to respond to emerging resource management issues, to give effect to relevant national direction, and to implement recommendations in the Waimakariri Zone Implementation Programme Addenda (ZIPA) among others.

Find out more about Plan Change 7.

Waimakariri Flood Protection Project

The $40 million Waimakariri Flood Protection Project will reduce the risk of flooding in Christchurch city and Waimakariri and Selwyn districts. It will add strength and resilience to the flood protection system already in place and significantly lower the risk of break-out during major flood events. Construction began in 2010 and was completed in 2019.

Find out more about the Waimakariri flood protection project.

Waimakariri Land and Water Solutions Programme

The Waimakariri Land and Water Solutions Programme was a collaborative project led by the Waimakariri Water Zone Committee to develop specific land and water management recommendations for the zone. These recommendations feed into the local and regional council’s plans and rules.

Find out more about the Waimakariri Land and Water Solutions Programme.

Support for farmers and community

Support is available to farmers - to help meet Good Management Practice and mahinga kai outcomes. We also have support available for community groups and landowners looking to undertake an environmental project. Read on to find out more about these topics.