What is a risk assessment?
And how is it different to other technical assessments we’ve done at the Head of the Lake?
We have undertaken many different hazard investigations and assessments over the years, which helped us to better understand the different hazards at the Head of Lake Whakatipu, for example, our assessment of flooding of the Buckler Burn.
We have also looked at ways to adapt to or manage these various hazards. We are now at the stage where we are undertaking a risk assessment.
The risk assessment captures all these technical investigations and other data to calculate the likely consequences of potential hazard events for the community, their homes and other infrastructure.
Risk is calculated by the nature of the hazard, as well as what is exposed to the hazard (i.e. what is in harm’s way), and factors that make people, communities or places more vulnerable to harm from the impacts of hazards (i.e. socio-economic status, age, ability, gender).
This is an important part of the programme, and it will help inform our adaptation and hazard management planning.
If you’re unsure about how this works and why this work is a critical foundation to future decision making, please call us.
We are happy to talk to anyone who lives or has a vested interest in the area at the Head of Lake Whakatipu about what this means for them.
Image: Mt Alfred
