Environment
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* A review highlighted issues with communication, staffing, and emergency declaration processes in Southland. * The response to Gore flooding and Bluecliffs erosion was affected by staff shortages. * Recommendations included improving training, staffing, and emergency declaration procedures for future events. An analysis of Southland’s most recent emergencies has revealed a range
Two offenders have been sentenced for their roles in a massive wildfire that swept through the Awarua Wetlands in Southland on April 2, 2022. The fire, lit during a prohibited fire season with a total fire ban in place, destroyed 1,330 hectares of the internationally recognised wetland. Brendon Robert
* Invercargill Mayor criticised the government for a "lack of transparency" in waste policy changes. * A strongly worded letter urged full consultation and review of the Waste Minimisation Act. * Councillors unanimously supported the letter, now sent to the Prime Minister and ministers. Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark has sent a
* Toxic algae identified in Waihopai River, posing risks to people and animals. * Residents urged to avoid algae and monitor other regional waterways for contamination. * Waiau River alert remains active near Excelsior Creek despite removal in Kennington. Toxic algae have been detected in the Waihopai River upstream of Queen’s Drive,
* Yellow-eyed penguin nest numbers on mainland New Zealand have fallen by 80% since 2008. * Fewer than 100 chicks remain across Stewart Island and the mainland this season. * Conservation efforts aim to prevent the species' extinction within two decades. Yellow-eyed penguins, one of the rarest penguins in the world and
Environment Southland has issued a warning after detecting toxic algae in the Waiau River near the Excelsior Creek inflow. While algae naturally occur in waterways, certain types can produce harmful toxins, especially during stable river flows and fine weather. Toxic algae can appear as dark green or brown slime on
* Researchers recorded earthquakes as deep as 40km in Southland's continental crust. * Study revealed unusually deep seismic activity due to unique crust composition with iron-rich minerals. * Findings improve understanding of hidden faults and future earthquake risks in Southland. University of Otago researchers have detected earthquakes as deep as 40
* Advocate fears Southland dumpsite erosion could harm marine life and coastal environment. * Southland Council maintains the site has low erosion risk, with regular monitoring in place. * Calls intensify for collaborative action to protect the vulnerable Colac Bay area. A community advocate has raised alarms over the future of an old