1

IN CONVERSATION WITH THE MAYOR

GARY TONG

through new technology (such as through our roading team’s use of drones).

On a personal note, two things have stood have out this year; one of great sadness, the other a highlight. Sadly, we farewelled former Mayor Frana Cardno in April. She was a great role model and the reason I got into politics; a wonderful woman who will be sadly missed. Rest in peace, Frana.

At the other end of the spectrum, in May I helped host His Royal Highness Prince Harry’s visit to Stewart Island. He’s a top bloke whose visit generated fantastic publicity for the island and Southland District. I’m sure our tourism industry will see the benefits for some while yet.

Mayor Gary Tong

Much like before crossing the road, at the end of each year I like to pause and look both ways.

Just a few months ago the Southland Regional Development Strategy was launched. It gives direction for development of the region as a whole, with the primary focus on increasing our population. It tells us focusing on population growth will mean not only more people, it will provide economic growth, skilled workers, a better lifestyle, and improved health, education and social services. We need to work together to achieve this; not just councils, but business, community, everyone. We’ll continue working on this in 2016.
There’s a lot to look back on in 2015, and there’s plenty to come in 2016. Reflecting on the year that’s been, I realise just how much has happened in Southland District over the past year.

Around the district we’ve seen so many things happening in 2015. There’s something going on in every community. Two projects that have seen good progression this year are the visitor centre complex at Curio Bay, and the purchase of Blackmount School to become a community centre. There are smaller projects too, and these are no less important – be it a public toilet upgrade or roadworks, these are the things that make a difference to us in our communities.
We’ll be working on ‘the basics’ as well – core services like water and wastewater work, playground upgrades and beautification work.

2016 will present challenges too – a big one will be managing the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail as we go forward.

Roading will continue to be a challenge in 2016 – As always there’s more work needed than money in the pot. It’s hoped our new 80/20 principle will help with this but we need to accept our lesser used roads won’t be kept at the same quality as those with high traffic numbers. We just can’t afford it.
It was great to see the fruits of our labours

paying off this year. The Stewart Island/ Rakiura Visitor Levy is an example of this – in 2015 we gave out $117,000 in levy funding to community projects on Stewart Island.
In the coming year nationally we’ll see the unemployment rate stay around the same, something I think Southland could take advantage of.

We’ll continue working on the Southland Regional Development Strategy, seeking ways to drive our region and economy forward.
We’ve been working on some big projects this year, including how best to move forward with the Te Anau Manapouri Wastewater Treatment project, regional development, progressing sustainable economic energy on Stewart Island and seeking innovation
I’m looking forward to continuing to working for a better Southand in 2016, building on the work that’s been done and seeking improvements for our District.

2

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

STEVE RURU

Southland District Council Chief Executive

It can be easy to get bogged down in the busyness of our day-to-day tasks and forget about looking at the bigger picture and what the future might hold.

At this time of year in particular, it is easy to end up feeling our daily ‘to do’ list is growing by the hour. However, we must not lose sight of the future despite the daily must dos.

Council will not be able to provide the leadership that our communities deserve unless we do create the space to stand back, think about the challenges we might face in the future and then put in place plans to help create the future that we collectively desire. The building of a stronger Southland will not simply happen by itself.
Further up the road, the Milford Opportunities Project will take a holistic look at how we can build on and create greater local advantage from the icon that is Milford Sound. Last year, close to 500,000 people visited Milford. This number is projected to increase in the future. Here at Council we are currently working with the Department of Conservation and other stakeholders to scope a project to look more closely at the opportunities that might exist for our communities and NZ as a whole to increase the benefits gained from having Milford Sound and the Fiordland National Park in our district.
If Southland is to prosper in the future we must harness the skills and strengths that exist in our communities. By pooling our skills and resources we can leverage the strengths that we each have to build an even stronger and brighter future.

A review of the approaches we use to work with our communities is underway. Through our community governance review we are looking at how we can build on what has worked well in the past, with our community board and community development area subcommittee structures, to create an even stronger model for working with our communities in the future. In Northern Southland, for example, we are piloting a new Leadership Cluster approach through which we are asking our CDA chairs to look beyond traditional Council business at issues, such as education, affecting their communities and how they can provide the support and leadership needed in these areas.
Similarly, the Southland Regional Development Strategy (now entering its second phase) will look at our region holistically; it is all about creating a dynamic Southland which takes advantage of its opportunities and can weather the economic storms when they arrive.

The view to make greater use of a collaborative approach is important because Council is not only a partner in, but a partner with, many other entities. It is in everyone’s interests that the multiple agencies which exist in Southland, whether they be from the public or private sector work together to make Southland a better place.

Our communities quite literally depend on it. Before I sign off, back to the present.
As part of a new Community Futures Project we are looking at what population aging and a decline in the number of people living in some of our communities might mean for the future of those communities. Using Ohai and Nightcaps as case studies we are looking at how the issues created by demographic change have been managed in other communities. From this work we want to develop a list of practical measures that can be used to keep these communities strong while also acknowledging the practical realities that the future will bring.
The holiday season is fast approaching and I know each of us is looking forward to some time to unwind. I want to take this opportunity to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. I hope you spend the holiday season with plenty of family and friends surrounding you and – fingers crossed – those soaring temperatures leave you recharged and ready for 2016.

Have a good one.

3

CHASLANDS SLIP A CHALLENGE

“The geographical location of the slip itself poses quite a

Repairs to the major slip on the Chaslands Highway on the Southern Scenic Route have been delayed and are likely to begin in the next few months.

challenge. In terms of a repair, the site is difficult due to a lack of available land nearby, along with the geology of the area. Based on test results and modelling work, indications are that the repair solution will be complex and a further detailed investigation will be required to determine what repair method is most suitable for this site.”
A section of the road collapsed due to a massive slip in June. Southland District Council Roading Engineer James McCallum said it was originally hoped work would begin before Christmas but the initial geotechnical assessments have shown repairs won’t be easy.
One option was to reinstate the roadway in its current location by creating a retaining wall structure; the other option is to move the affected section of road away from the slip area.
“A repair to this damaged section of road has no

easy or cheap solution. We want to get this right and undertake the most appropriate repair, with two options being investigated further. Major considerations are the cost and what is the best solution,” he said.
While there has been a delay, it is still expected that site repairs will be started and hopefully completed in the upcoming construction season (December-April).

A temporary repair saw a 75 metre section of road moved away from the edge of the slip to create a temporary single

• lane piece of road.
• Finding a permanent solution won’t be easy.

4

aircraft, usually undertaken every few years. The drone unit was inexpensive in comparison.

COUNCIL TAKES TO THE SKY AS PART OF ROADING WORK

Southland District Council is taking an innovative approach to assessing impacts on the roading network, by getting a high resolution aerial view through the use of a drone.

Council Roading Manager Joe Bourque said the ability to send digital footage to an offsite geotechnical engineer was faster and cheaper.
Roading Engineer James McCallum said Council has been using a drone for more than six months to assist in road works.
“Doing this in just one instance recently saved Council the cost of the drone, several times over.”
“We use it a couple of times a week for a range of applications including aerial surveying and photography, monitoring effects of weather events such as flooding, slips and coastal erosion, reviewing damages and keeping records. It takes both video and still footage. It’s a really great tool for us to use.”
A large percentage of the Council’s roading network is outside of controlled airspace so staff can use the drone extensively, allowing extensive use across the network.
EarlierthisyearCouncilundertookatrialusingborrowedequipment, after this proved successful, a drone was purchased.
“It’s a really good use of innovation. The Southland District Council was one of the first councils in New Zealand to purchase and utilise this technology, providing value for money roading services to the region,” Mr Bourque said.
It saves time and money, and provides up-to-date information with high quality, clear imagery. Footage has been supplied to external consultants, saving time and money for site inspections and improving Council’s service response, he said.

Previously aerial photos were only available from flyovers by

The reorganisation will establish a single customer support team, while a community partnership team – led by community partnership leaders, charged with heading engagement with the public – will also be created.

Council reorganisation to focus on community engagement

A reorganisation of roles at Council is all about increasing engagement with Southland’s communities.

“The community partnership leader roles are about developing a structure that allows Council to support and assist communities, and will allow us to better align with other agencies, whether they are in the public or private sphere. The development of these roles will also give our communities improved accessibility to Council,” Mr Ruru said.
Chief Executive Steve Ruru said it was important Council, like any business, assessed its structure from time to time.

“It is crucial that our organisation is able to meet the changing needs of the modern world, and our communities within it. Southlanders have told us that we can improve the way in which we work with our communities, and we have listened. The changes we are implementing will place a greater emphasis on engagement, and working with our communities to address the priorities that they each have.”
A final decision on Council’s reorganisation will be made this month.

5

SOUTHLAND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY LAUNCHED

the population growth and regional lifestyle people want. A strong focus on a small number of projects will help to achieve this.

The Southland Regional Development Strategy was launched recently, the result of a strong working relationship between the region’s councils, iwi, business and community groups. This same cohesive action is the key to its on-going success.

Southland District Council Chief Executive Steve Ruru said the strategy’s launch was very successful and it was pleasing to see positive buy-in from the wider business community.

“A key part of the strategy is that addressing the challenges the region faces will require a whole of Southland approach. No single agency or sector can address the challenges on their own. We need a collaborative approach.”
The main focus of the strategy is on increasing the population, and calls for bold yet practical action to build a stronger, brighter future. It aims to make Southland a uniquely attractive region by building economic and

• social values in parallel.
• The next part of the strategy will be overseen by former New

Zealand Aluminium Smelters Chief Executive Tom Campbell, who has been appointed Chair of the Governance Group.
Southland District Mayor Gary Tong welcomed the strategy which he said provides a pathway forward for

• the region.
• Action teams have been established to work on six different

areas; vibrant urban centres, ease of doing business, people attraction, new industries/innovation, business extension and caring and inclusive communities.
“This strategy tells us that focusing on population growth will mean not only more people, it will provide economic growth, skilled workers, a better lifestyle, and improved health, education and social services. It tells The strategy was commissioned in late 2014 by the Mayoral us we need to work together to achieve this; not just Forum to unify regional development and to look at levers for

• councils, but business, community, everyone.”
• economic and social development. It wanted a clear statement

of problems and a framework to develop solutions, as well as a strategy document providing a clear plan of united action.
The strategy recognises that there are negative perceptions of the region from those outside and

• concludes that
• a
• gradual build-up of perceived It is available to the public at Council offices, libraries and on

positives is needed to outweigh negatives and produce our website: southlanddc.govt.nz

6

SAFETY CONCERNS AT STOCK CROSSING SITES

Dairy farmers are being reminded to follow correct procedures at stock crossings, with concerns that not doing so could lead to a serious accident in the Southland District.

WORRIES ABOUT REPORTS OF CYCLE TRAIL MISUSE

Southland District Council Area Engineer Brendan Gray said it had been noticed recently that not all roading policy procedures were being followed at some stock crossings.

Concerns have been raised about possible misuse of the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail as the busy season gets underway.

“If someone hits a cow, it does a lot of damage; there’s a high chance of it causing serious injury or even loss of life.”

He was aware of one recent near miss in the District.
Southland District Council Services and

Assets Group Manager Ian Marshall said it had been brought to his attention that some people may have been using the trail for unpermitted activities.
“The vehicle was extensively damaged and the driver was lucky to walk away.”

In the last five years there have been about 50 crashes caused by farm animals on Southland District Council roads, although it’s not known how many were at stock crossings.
“We’ve had some anecdotal feedback that people have used the track to move stock and ride motorbikes. Obviously this is a concern as it could pose safety hazards, cause damage to infrastructure and also affect cyclists’ experiences.”
Council is undertaking an education campaign to address the issue. Anyone seen to operate a stock crossing incorrectly will be sent a letter advising them of what the proper procedures are.

“We don’t want to take a hard line with people we just want to remind them that this is an important safety issue and one that should be taken seriously.”
Mr Marshall said it is disappointing to hear that people have been misusing the trail and Council is taking the issue seriously.
There are close to 450 stock crossings in Southland District.

Requirements include having a drover in attendance when the crossing is in use, adequate signage, operating flashing lights and flood lighting when crossings are used during the hours of darkness. Although widely used, tapes across the roadway are not permitted in any situation.
“We’ll certainly be investigating any cases that are reported to us. We want this to be a quality experience, for both locals and visitors. To achieve this we need to ensure people use the trail appropriately.”
Any new stock crossings need approval from Council and it is best to enquire at the planning stage. Anyone found to repeatedly use their crossing incorrectly could have their permit removed or additional conditions imposed.
Stage one of the trail is now in its second summer season, and is drawing a good number of cyclists.

More information about stock crossing requirements is available on Council’s website: southlanddc.govt.nz
“Feedback from communities in Northern Southland is that they’re seeing more cyclists. This is great news.”

“We’ve also had some really positive feedback from cyclists getting out and using the trail. It’s great to see that enthusiasm.”

Anyone who wants to give feedback or report issues relating to the trail can do so at aroundthemountains.co.nz

7

If you live on a farm or lifestyle block in rural Southland water pipes might run through your land, so if you’re planning to do any digging on the property it’s important to fi nd out fi rst or you could face a costly clean-up. Repairs could prove quite costly.

alternatively property owners and contractors can request an ‘on-site service locate’,” Mr Keil said.

It is important to note that the information Council gives out about this is intended to be advisory only.

“We do our best to provide the correct information to people but a lot of the pipework was laid more than 40 years ago so the exact location and depths recorded may not be completely accurate. We give it out for guidance purposes.”
Water and Waste Services Operations Technician Matthew Keil said there are a lot of rural properties likely to have pipelines running under the property. Rural water supplies run throughout the district, including the entire Te Anau Basin, Matuku, Lumsden-Balfour and Eastern Bush/ Otahu Flat.
The only way you can know the exact location of pipes on your property is to hire a contractor to find out. If you or your contractor damage pipes, you may be required to pay for any repairs.
“Councilhashistoricinformationaboutthelocation of underground pipework in the district and where pipes might be on ratepayer’s properties. We’re happy to give out that information at no cost;
You can request more information from our website: southlanddc.govt.nz or call 0800 732 732

– the only letter you should flush

What can you flush down the toilet?

It’s pretty simple: Only the three Ps – pee, poo and paper. When you flush things down the toilet that don’t belong it can cause blockages that can cost thousands of dollars to repair.

Your toilet is not a rubbish bin. Every year tens of thousands of dollars are spent repairing damage caused by people flushing items they shouldn’t.

Things like disposable cleaning cloths and tissues shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet. For more information about flushing etiquette visit the water page on our website: southlanddc.govt.nz

8

DON’T BE A DRIP THIS SUMMER

Summer has fi nally arrived, hopefully bringing plenty of sunshine to the Deep South. Our water and waste team enjoy summer as much as the rest of us, but there are challenges in the new season too.

USE LESS WATER

••••••
Turn the tap off when brushing your teeth or shaving

Water and wastewater costs are incorporated into your rates bill, and if everyone works together to not waste water by following the tips below then we can minimise extra costs, meaning you’re not paying more than you have to. It also means we’re less likely to face restrictions if it gets a bit dry.
Have showers instead of baths, and keep it short

Make sure you do a full load when washing dishes or clothes

Collect water in drums or tanks from roof runoff

It’s not hard to do your bit; we ask you to do the following:

••
Inspect for water leaks on your property (including faulty taps)
Check the forecast - if there’s rain

ahead, let it water for you
When draining your swimming pool please let us know first so

we can make sure it doesn’t cause any problems – that’s a lot of water going down the pipes
Check your garden hose and taps regularly for leaks and use a trigger nozzle on the hose to reduce water loss
••
Please tell us when you’re refilling your pool – we want to make sure there’s enough water for your neighbours as well
•

•
If watering your garden do it early in the morning or early evening
If you see water leaking somewhere like a public toilet, at a toby valve (the valve that allows the mains water to be closed off), or on the road just let us know and we’ll send someone to fix it
Wash your car on the lawn so your lawn gets watered too

• •
• Make sure your drainage is connected correctly; stormwater and

sewerage drains are required to be separate

We are recommending this simple precaution for all households, including those on public and private water supplies.
Although the health risk is small, the Ministry of Health recommends you flush a mugful of water from your drinking-water tap each morning before use to
Some plumbing fittings have the potential to allow minute traces of metals to accumulate in water standing in the fittings for remove any metals which may have dissolved from the plumbing fittings.