Abstract | Communication and Connectedness is Key

Previous poor land practices and over allocation of water has meant that the health of many rivers, streams and lakes were in decline. This information motivated the general public to become proactive in helping to solve these environmental issues.In 2009, the Canterbury Water Management Strategy Framework Document (CWMS) was published. This document was the cumulation of collaborative work by the Regional Council, District and Territorial Authorities, Ngai Tahu and Canterbury’s communities. The CWMS looked at ways in which water could be effectively managed within Canterbury.

The CWMS outlined eight key issues: Pressure on river systems, pressure on aquifer systems, cumulative effects on ecosystems, cultural health of waterways, water use efficiency, climate change, water quality impairment issues and infrastructure issues. The purpose of the document is to find solutions to the aforementioned challenges by engaging with the community.

Canterbury is comprised of ten zones; Kaikoura, Hurunui/Waiau, Waimakariri, Christchurch/West Melton, Banks Peninsula, Selwyn/Waihora, Ashburton, Orari/Opihi/Pareora, Upper Waitaki, Lower Waitaki/South Canterbury. Each zone has its own committee with the purpose of bringing the local community together to assist in solving the above issues by making recommendations which are then put into action by councils and other organisations and groups.

In order to support the zone committees and to be solution focused in specific areas, the Canterbury Regional Council restructured internal sections. Zone teams now exist, each with their own Zone Manager, Compliance staff etc. which ensures dedicated zone delivery focus.

By ensuring that local communities are sufficiently supported by the regional council, district and territorial authorities, they are not only made aware of the exact issues their zone faces, but also encouraged to become part of the solution. We are motivating people to change their environmental practices for the better by encouraging participation through better communication and connectedness.

Bio | Carly Cushman

My name is Carly Cushman. I have BSc in Ecology from Massey University. I have worked at Environment Canterbury for ten years in various roles. I have been a Team Leader in the Consents Section for the last four years. I believe that communication and connectedness is the key to success in any organisation. I believe in the vision of Environment Canterbury which is working towards sustainable development. I believe that authenticity and transparency in decision making builds trust with our communities and with their trust, better communication, connectedness and more involvement from out local communities, we can achieve that vision.