Report highlights environmental commitment
The Council has today approved the Compliance Monitoring Report 2024–25, which shows the region’s ongoing commitment to responsible resource management.
Environment Southland Chairman Nicol Horrell said the report reflects the Council’s compliance monitoring and enforcement, and it demonstrates the commitment, adaptability and progress so many individuals, businesses, and sectors continue to make.
“The report highlights that nearly all consent holders and those operating under permitted activities remained compliant even with a particularly wet spring and changing regulations.”
Environment Southland Regulatory Committee chairman Neville Cook agrees.
“We were encouraged by the resilience and innovation shown across the region. Initiatives like the dairy top performers programme are setting a high bar and providing valuable examples for others to follow,” Councillor Cook said.
“It is really pleasing to have seen over the years, the ongoing improvements and acceptance of farmers for the need to recognise the environmental and animal welfare benefits of good winter grazing practice,” he said.
During 2024-25, the Council issued 20 infringement notices, which is half the number issued the previous year (40); 27 abatement notices were issued, compared to 30 in 2023-24.
There were several serious incidents requiring enforcement action, and four successful prosecutions. These incidents involved situations of repeated non-compliance and one of significant environmental harm, which was reflected in the penalty imposed by the Court.
“Those few that do not take their environmental responsibilities seriously let everyone else down and this past year we have seen some serious and disappointing cases,” said Chairman Horrell.
“The Council has a responsibility to uphold the rules and to respond when things go wrong. Just as importantly, we also support success and will continue to do that by working together with others to ensure Southland continues to thrive,” he said.
The Compliance Monitoring Report 2024-25 is available on the Council’s website.
