Benefits
- Improved performance to the current design standard for Gore’s flood banks and related assets, reducing risk to people, property and critical services.
-
Designed for future adaptation, so the works can be adjusted as climate pressures and service-level needs change.
- Co-funded with central government (Kānoa), bringing work forward from the Long-term Plan and lowering costs for ratepayers.
Funding
This project is part of the national Resilient River Communities initiative — a joint programme between Kānoa and Te Uru Kahika – Regional and Unitary Councils Aotearoa. It is one of Environment Southland’s RRC projects, delivered with central government co-funding during 2021–2024.
Looking ahead
On 16 October 2025, new co-funding was confirmed through Kānoa – the Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit (MBIE) under the national Resilient River Communities initiative. This supports the next phase: the Mataura River Flood Resilience Project.
This phase applies 2D hydraulic flood modelling across the Mataura River—including the Gore reach—to assess the capacity and performance of the existing flood infrastructure network, identify priority improvements, and inform an integrated, whole-of-catchment plan.
Alongside engineered works, the plan will consider nature-based measures where they add value (e.g. wetland restoration, detainment bunds, floodplain reconnection, riparian planting) to help slow, store and safely convey water while supporting ecological and cultural outcomes.
Building on insights from Murihiku Slow the Flow, the plan will test how engineered and nature-based measures can work together to reduce flood impacts. Nature-based measures such as wetland restoration, detainment bunds, floodplain reconnection and riparian planting can help slow, store and safely convey water while supporting ecological, cultural and community outcomes.
Insights from modelling and community engagement will guide the design and sequencing of future flood infrastructure works and longer-term adaptation options.
