Dangerous Dams Policy
Consultation on the draft Dangerous dams, Earthquake-prone dams, and Flood-prone dams Policy has now closed.
Environment Southland is seeking feedback on a proposed Dangerous dams, Earthquake-prone dams, and Flood-prone dams Policy. This is the first time we’ve developed a specific policy to address dam safety in our region, and we want to hear your views.
Under the Building Act 2004, regional authorities must have a policy in place for managing dams that may pose a risk to people, property, or the environment.
Due to Southland's current State of Emergency, we have extended the consultation period. Submissions can now be received up to close of business on Monday, 24 November 2025.
What the policy does
The draft policy outlines how Environment Southland will:
- Identify dams that are dangerous, earthquake-prone, or flood-prone.
- Work with dam owners to reduce or remove risks.
- Maintain a register of classifiable dams and share information with territorial authorities.
- Apply the policy to heritage dams where relevant.
This policy is part of a wider regulatory framework aimed at protecting Southlanders from the potential impacts of dam failure.
Why it matters
Southland has a relatively small number of classifiable dams, many of which are used for:
- Agricultural purposes
- Flood protection
- Hydroelectric infrastructure
These dams are exposed to risks such as:
- Heavy rainfall and riverine flooding (e.g., Mataura, Εreti, Aparima, Waiau catchments)
- Seismic activity near the Fiordland Fault System
The policy provides a proactive approach to managing existing risks and ensuring dam safety across the region.
Roles and responsibilities
Dam owners are responsible for identifying, monitoring, and reporting on dam safety risks, and for taking timely action to reduce or remove danger.
Environment Southland will:
- Keep a register of dams as required by the Building Act.
- Develop monitoring procedures to keep dam information up to date.
- Share dam status with relevant territorial authorities for inclusion in land information memoranda.
Have your say
We invite you to read the draft policy and share your feedback. Your input will help shape how we manage dam safety in Southland.
π View the Draft Policy
π View the Statement of Proposal
π Make a submission
π Contact us for more information
