In collaboration with partners, Otago Regional Council (ORC) is working to improve understanding and management of debris flood hazards in the Teviot Valley.

In February 2026, we shared detailed hazard and risk assessment findings for 13 catchments.

A multi-stage process is now underway to identify feasible debris flood management options and pathways to implementation. In October 2026, we are sharing an initial list of potential options.

Initial list of potential debris flood management options (long-list phase).

ORC commissioned WSP consultants to develop an initial list of debris flood management options for parts of the Teviot Valley. These options will be the building blocks used to develop proposed debris flood management plans (Stage 2).

At a community engagement event, ORC and partners will share the initial list as well as proposed criteria to apply to assess the proposed management plans in Stage 2.

Feedback and community insights on the initial list and process are gathered for consideration.

Development and assessment of proposed debris flood management plans

In this stage, options from the initial list (Stage 1) will be combined into proposed debris flood management plans at a group or individual catchment level, as necessary. The management plans will be assessed using the criteria proposed in Stage 1. Roles and responsibilities to deliver the plans will be identified. The proposed debris flood management plans will be shared with the community in early/mid 2027 for feedback.

Finalise the debris flood management plans and propose implementation pathways

The third stage will assess feasibility of the debris flood management plans in detail, focussing on actions that are aligned with ORC’s areas of responsibility. If other organisations decide to take part in the third stage, the scope can be adjusted accordingly.

The refined management plans will be shared with the community at an engagement event in mid 2027 with another opportunity for the community to share feedback on the work.