We’re inviting people and organisations with an interest in the future of the Mata-Au/Clutha and connected catchments to join a new collaborative planning process to help shape practical, on-the-ground action for our environment in the form of Catchment Action Plans.

 Otago Regional Council is forming two new integrated catchment groups and developing two catchment action plans:

• one for the Inland Mata-Au/Clutha (Central Otago) and connected catchments
• one for the Lower Mata-Au/Clutha (Clutha District) and connected catchments
• These plans will take a whole-of-catchment, ki uta ki tai (mountains to sea) approach, building on the work already underway with the Upper Lakes catchment action plan. The two new groups will develop plans in collaboration with mana whenua, communities, landholders, industries, agencies and environmental groups. This is an opportunity to help shape the long-term environmental future of your wider catchment, contribute your knowledge and perspectives, and work collaboratively with others who care about these places. To find out more you can attend an upcoming information session.

Inland Mata-Au/Clutha

Covering Nevis and Lindis to Dunstan, Ida Valley and Manuherekia to Alexandra, through Roxburgh, Teviot and Millers Flat, to Raes Junction (map attached).

Information Sessions:

• In person: Monday 11 May, 3.30–4.30pm, Alexandra Community House, 14/20 Centennial Avenue, Alexandra
• Online via Zoom: Monday 11 May, 6.30–7.30pm Join via: https://otagorc.zoom.us/j/82243827555

Lower Mata-Au/Clutha

Covering the Pomahaka, Clinton and Balclutha, Beaumont to Milton, and along the coast from Mata-Au/Clutha Mouth to Toko Mouth and up to Taieri Mouth (map attached).

Information Sessions:

• In person: Tuesday 12 May, 3.30–4.30pm, Cross Recreation Centre, 18 Glasgow Street, Balclutha
• Online via Zoom: Monday 18 May, 6.30–7.30pm, Join via: https://otagorc.zoom.us/j/82243827555

 Expressions of Interest to be part of either catchment group are now open via the website until 27 May - Inland Mata-Au/Clutha and Lower Mata-Au/Clutha

 Being involved includes:

• Taking part in up to six in-person collaborative workshops
• Helping shape a shared catchment action plan focused on environmental health, native biodiversity, water and land
• Building relationships and connections across your wider area
• Identifying common issues, opportunities and practical actions

 There are also other ways to contribute, including:

• Online surveys
• Site visits
• Community conversations
• Or simply catching up with our team for a cuppa and a chat along the way – just get in touch with [email protected]

 The Catchment Action Plans are non-regulatory, community-informed plans designed to:

• Build a shared understanding of catchment values, environmental pressures and future opportunities
• Align and strengthen the great work already happening across communities and sectors
• Identify practical, on-the-ground actions to improve freshwater, biodiversity, land and ecosystem health
• Help coordinate future investment, partnerships and delivery
• We now have social media posts live on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Renee Pearson – Catchment Action Planner