* Environment Southland is closely monitoring water levels in Waituna Lagoon due to rising concerns.
* The lagoon's elevated level of 2.5m is affecting roads, paddocks, and local farming activities.
* Any lagoon opening would require emergency powers and careful coordination to ensure safety.
Environment Southland is keeping a close
* Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds supports farmers facing severe weather conditions in Southland.
* Rainfall levels in some areas have exceeded 200 percent of the long-term September average.
* Farmers struggle with ongoing wet weather, low lamb prices, and mental health challenges.
Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds has voiced her support for Southland farmers
A planned aerial 1080 drop to rid Stewart Island of Norway rats and other pest species has some locals concerned, following a public meeting this week.
Predator Free Rakiura is planning to use a 10,000ha trial block at the southern end of Rakiura in Autumn 2025, to learn what
* Ministers praise the interest in the agricultural and horticultural regulatory products review process.
* Over 80 submissions were received, highlighting the need to streamline approval processes.
* Recommendations will be tested with industry groups before presenting findings to the Cabinet.
Regulation Minister David Seymour, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds, and Food Safety Minister
New Zealand’s inaugural national tyre recycling scheme, ‘Tyrewise,’ is now fully operational, with free collections beginning today. Environment Minister Penny Simmonds hailed the initiative as a critical step in tackling a persistent environmental issue. “The first priority product stewardship sche
Three Southland flood protection projects will benefit from today’s announcement of Government funding for climate resilience projects across the country. Environment Southland Chairman Nicol Horrell said the Council welcomed the Government’s decision to invest in flood protection and to recognise i
A whale so rare that only six specimens have ever been documented has washed ashore on an Otago beach. On Thursday, 4 July, the Department of Conservation (DOC) staff received reports of a beaked whale, approximately 5 metres long, near Taiari Mouth. After inspection and consultation with marine mam
Federated Farmers have expressed strong support for the recent decision to review methane emission targets, viewing it as an essential step towards fairness for the farming community and beneficial for the New Zealand economy as a whole. “Federated Farmers see this review as an immensely positive de
