News
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Testing the numbers on Council restructure options
NewsEnvironment Southland has developed a financial model to test the costs and savings of local government restructure options for the region.
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Recent Old Man’s Beard sighting shows need for pest plant checks
NewsEnvironment Southland is urging residents to check their properties and gardens for any sightings of the pest plant, which poses a significant threat to native vegetation and forest ecosystems.
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Southlanders need to prepare for ‘Super El Niño’ weather conditions
NewsEarth Sciences New Zealand is predicting a ‘Super El Niño’ weather system to develop later this year. El Niño’s tend to bring colder, windier, and wetter than average weather for Murihiku Southland.
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Have your say on proposed speed limit changes on Southland waterways
NewsEnvironment Southland is asking the community for feedback on ten proposed new “speed uplifted areas” as part of its review of the Navigation Safety Bylaw.
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Environment Southland approves $340,000 boost for Thriving Southland
NewsEnvironment Southland has approved a one-off allocation of $340,000 to support Thriving Southland’s delivery of community catchment and wetland projects across the region.
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Win a warmer winter with Environment Southland
NewsEnvironment Southland has launched its 2026 Free Firewood Giveaway to help Southlanders stay warm this winter while encouraging cleaner home heating.
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Councillors reduce proposed rates increase again
NewsEnvironment Southland councillors today signalled a further reduction to the proposed rates increase for 2026-27, lowering it from 3.9% to 3.25%.
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Survey shows good levels of climate awareness among Southlanders
NewsA good level of awareness and a need to reduce barriers to action are some of the key findings from the Murihiku Southland Our Changing Climate – Community Survey 2025
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Investigation of nitrate in Gore’s groundwater supply
NewsEnvironment Southland’s staged scientific investigation to better understand nitrate levels in groundwater supplying Gore’s drinking water is underway.
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Two options for local government change in Southland continues
NewsThe announcement today by the Local Government Commission to move into Phase two of its investigation means the region has two options for change.
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Southland farm plan timeframe extended
NewsEnvironment Southland says the Government has given Southland farmers an extra 18 months to complete and submit their farm plans for certification.
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Rates Database Availability
Public noticeThe rates database for the Southland Regional Council (trading as Environment Southland) is available for inspection during office hours.
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New rules for stock grazing on flood banks under adopted bylaw
NewsWe have adopted a new Flood Control and Drainage Management Bylaw, strengthening the rules that protect Murihiku Southland’s flood infrastructure network so that it functions when it’s needed most.
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Continued local and Government investment boosts flood resilience
NewsEnvironment Southland has just begun improvements to the Mataura River at the Gore road and rail bridge crossing.
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Small changes at home this winter can cut smoke and costs
NewsMaking sure the air we breathe is cleaner can also help families heat their homes more efficiently this winter.
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Regional Council Chair calls for united Southland response
NewsToday’s announcement by the Government signals that structural change is imminent for local government.
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Consultation begins on 2026-27 Fees and Charges Schedule
NewsThe Council is inviting people to have their say on the proposed Fees and Charges Schedule for 2026-27.
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Council appoints new Chief Executive, Stephen Hall
NewsEnvironment Southland has appointed Stephen Hall as its new Chief Executive and he will begin in the role on 20 July.
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Council sets compliance approach for winter grazing season
NewsEnvironment Southland’s compliance approach for the 2026 winter grazing season will focus on clarity, consistency, and support for landowners as they transition into new farm planning requirements.
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Smart wintering field days showcase technology and soil science
NewsSmart wintering field days at Waiau and Pukerau next week are a great opportunity to check in on grazing plans ahead of the start of the season.