Environment

Environment Southland has identified toxic algae in the Aparima River at Thornbury, raising concerns for public safety and animal health in the area. The discovery follows routine monitoring, which found conditions suitable for algae growth in the river. Earlier in the week algae was reported in the Mataura river. Algae

Environment Southland has confirmed the presence of toxic algae in the Mataura River, specifically downstream of the Riversdale bridge. The discovery follows routine monitoring, which identified concerning levels of algae that may pose risks to both people and animals using the river. Algae also at Aparima river. Algae are a

Environment Southland has welcomed a decision by the Environmental Protection Authority to approve the release of Blaptea elguetai, a leaf-feeding beetle that will help control the invasive Chilean flame creeper. The approval is seen as an important step in tackling one of the region’s most aggressive pest plants. Chilean

Environment Southland is marking a major biosecurity success after eradicating the invasive seaweed Undaria pinnatifida from Broad Bay on Rakiura Stewart Island. The breakthrough follows the discovery of a single craypot carrying Undaria in September 2020. The pest was immediately removed and treated, triggering a detailed monitoring programme. Extensive follow-up

Recent survey results from Southland’s Waituna Lagoon have given the Department of Conservation (Doc) a reason to be hopeful, with signs the wetland may be recovering from years of environmental decline. The annual monitoring showed a sharp drop in algae levels and an increase in aquatic plant Ruppia, which

As proud stewards of the land, New Zealand’s farmers and growers work hard to care for the environment. The Government is making this easier by approving regulations for a nationwide rural recycling scheme covering agrichemicals and farm plastics, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds says. “This initiative is about fixing the

Multiple fire crews responded to the scene, working throughout the night to control the blaze. By just after 1am on Wednesday morning, the fire had been contained. However, it continued to burn and remained out of control during the day. The fire is estimated to have covered around five hectares.

The Southland region is set to benefit from a major funding boost for flood protection, with the Government confirming nearly $15 million to support two key infrastructure upgrades. Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds welcomed the move, calling it “a positive step in future-proofing this province and its people”. The funding, delivered