Head of Lake Whakatipu and Glenorchy
The Head of Lake Whakatipu (Whakatipu Waimāori) area, including Glenorchy, Kinloch and surrounding areas, is at risk from natural hazards like floods, landslides, and earthquakes.
The Otago Regional Council (ORC) has led a Natural Hazards Adaptation Programme aimed at building the community's resilience to these challenges. This programme involves close collaboration with local communities, mana whenua, and partner agencies to develop a long-term and holistic strategy that helps manage and adapt the impacts of these natural hazards now and in the future.
The Adaptation Strategy and its Action Plan were endorsed by ORC Council in May 2025. The Strategy's partners will start implementing the Strategy from mid-2025.
Our Head of Lake Whakatipu natural hazards adaptation program aims to build resilience through collaboration with the community. Access reports, program information, and community workshops to learn more and get involved in enhancing resilience in this area.
The Head of Lake Whakatipu Natural Hazards Adaptation Strategy was endorsed by Otago Regional Council in May 2025. This comprehensive document sets out a long-term vision and goals for adapting to natural hazards in the area. It also includes background information on the area and its natural hazard risks, and outlines an Action Plan and possible future responses.
Implementation of the Head of Lake Whakatipu Natural Hazards Adaptation Strategy will begin in mid-2025, led by Otago Regional Council and its partners including Queenstown Lakes District Council and the community. Progress updates will be provided regularly.
The natural hazards adaptation programme has produced a range of research and reports over the years. These documents provide valuable insights into local natural hazard risks and support informed decision-making. You can view all reports as well as Council papers, community presentations and more on this page.
Adaptation is an ongoing process that involves social learning. This page highlights good practices and lessons learned led by ORC and its partners during the implementation of the strategy. By sharing these practical examples, we aim to support learning across communities and help others apply effective approaches in their own adaptation efforts.
A range of resources is being developed to support the implementation of the strategy. This includes guidance documents and an accessible overview of the strategy.
Your feedback and support are important to us. Visit this page to see which work we are currently seeking your input on.
This FAQ page provides answers to common questions about natural hazard management in Glenorchy. It covers flood risks, earthquake impacts, and mitigation strategies based on ORC studies and expert advice, helping you make informed decisions about safety in the region.
ORC Natural Hazards team has led the development and implementation of the adaptation programme and strategy. The team works closely with other ORC teams and its partners as well as external consultants to accomplish the programme and strategy goals.
