The Dangerous Dams, Earthquake-prone Dams and Flood-prone Dams Policy is a key component of the wider regulatory framework for protecting people, property, and the environment from the potential impacts of dam failure.
The policy provides for the identification and management of dams of concern in Murihiku Southland, and the measures we will take (including with the dam owner) to reduce or remove danger.
The policy also states the approach and priorities we will take in performing our functions in relation to dangerous dams, earthquake-prone dams and flood-prone dams, and how the policy will apply to heritage dams.
This policy applies to dams everywhere in the Southland region, irrespective of the age and intended life of the dam. Where required by the Building Act Act 2004, parts of this policy apply specifically to classifiable dams, which also include “large dams” as defined in section 7 of the Act.
Murihiku Southland
has a relatively small number of classifiable dams, many associated with
agricultural, flood protection and hydroelectric infrastructure.
The policy was adopted in February 2026 after a consultation process in late 2025.
