Infrastructure Strategy

This Strategy has been prepared to give an account of, and forecast spending for, infrastructure in the Southland region within the direct control of Environment Southland.

It contributes directly to achieving the organisational vision of a thriving Southland by supporting sustainable communities.

This strategy also sets a complementary and specific vision for the long-term management of regional infrastructure that is integrated with the broader organisational principles of risk management, efficiency and innovation. One of Environment Southland’s community outcomes is a commitment that our actions will lead to “more empowered and resilient communities” and this strategy is a key element in providing for community resilience through effective management of a regional flood protection system.

Our community has shown strong support for greater investment in flood protection, and we are listening. While affordability remains a key concern, Council has committed to targeted upgrades in the short term, alongside a staged capital works programme from 2027/28 onwards. This strategy also marks a shift in approach — recognising that continually raising stop banks is not a long-term solution. As part of our planning, we will investigate alternative, nature-based methods such as gravel management, land use change, wetland restoration and native plantings to support more adaptive and resilient landscapes.

The Infrastructure Strategy 2024-56 is available as part of the Long-term Plan 2024-34, Investing in Southland - Whakangao ki Murihiku. You can read it here (page 56).