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Thursday 24 July 2025
Residents from Clutha and Milton are encouraged to come along to a community drop-in session to learn more about the Lower Clutha and Tokomairiro flood protection and drainage schemes that helps to reduce risk to homes, farms, and infrastructure in these areas.
Hosted by ORC, the session will be held at Rosebank Lodge in Balclutha on Tuesday 5 August, from 3-6pm. People can drop in any time to speak with staff.
The Lower Clutha Flood Protection and Drainage Scheme plays a critical role in protecting around 9,300 hectares of low-lying land, including Balclutha, Kaitangata and Stirling. Built between 1960 and 1991, the scheme includes 110 km of floodbanks, 153 km of drains and 189 culverts, helping reduce flood risk and drain land across the delta.
The Tokomairiro Drainage Scheme drains the low-lying farmland in the Tokomairiro area around Milton and reduces the impact of flooding on Milton and its surrounds. The scheme consists entirely of open drains, with culverts and bridge crossings.
“This is a great opportunity for the community to see what we’re doing to keep this essential infrastructure working well, and to hear more about what work is ahead,” says ORC's Manager Engineering, Brett Paterson.
Natural Hazards staff will also be present at this session to discuss ORC’s wider work in the Clutha Delta area, including work on Clutha Delta Natural Hazards Adaptation - a long-term project to better understand risk and work with the community on possible responses.
“As well as sharing updates on recent flood repair work, we’ll also be talking about long-term planning and how we’re preparing for natural hazards and changes in the future. We’re keen to hear local views and concerns,” says Manager Natural Hazards, Jean-Luc Payan.
People can learn more about:
“We know how important flood protection is to people in this area — it’s about protecting livelihoods, homes and land,” says Mr Paterson. “Come along, ask questions, and tell us what matters most to you. It’s all part of planning for a safer future together.”
A local liaison group for the Lower Clutha scheme is also planned to be established later in 2025, providing a formal way for community input into the scheme’s operation and future.
Let’s Talk Flood Protection, South Otago
Community Drop-in Session
Rosebank Lodge,
265 Clyde Street,
Balclutha
Tuesday 5 August 2025
3.00pm – 6.00pm
The ORC Engineering and Natural Hazard teams are running a drop-in session focused on flood protection in South Otago. Bring your questions and local knowledge — we’re here to listen.
The Clutha Delta Natural Hazards Adaptation Programme is about understanding and planning for natural hazards including flooding, erosion, earthquakes, and sea-level rise in the Clutha Delta. Otago Regional Council is working with the Clutha District Council, Civil Defence and Emergency Management, and plans to work closely with the community and mana whenua to explore local knowledge alongside technical studies. The programme aims to develop practical, long-term solutions to ensure safety and resilience now and in the future.
