Understanding the debris flood hazard, options to manage, and reduce risks to the Roxburgh community. 

Roxburgh sits on land known as alluvial fans. Alluvial fans are formed by the sediment from mountain streams accumulating over a long time. This creates fertile soil and natural drainage, making the area well-suited for farming, gardening and everyday living. 

Living on these alluvial fans comes with challenges. The Roxburgh area is exposed to several natural hazards- such as debris flows and debris floods. These can be dangerous because they are unpredictable; they can happen quickly and with great power, posing a risk to infrastructure, homes and lives. 

Alluvial fans and debris flow-type processes have always been here and are naturally occurring. We're working to understand more about the risks and the impact they could have for the community.

Otago Regional Council (ORC) is leading a work programme to better understand these alluvial fan hazards and look at ways to manage and reduce their impact on the Roxburgh community. We will also be going out to the community to discuss our latest risk assessment and share the findings.  

This work is carried out in partnership with Central Otago District Council, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Civil Defence Emergency Management, hand in hand with the Roxburgh community.