Content Archived on the Web

This content has not been altered or updated since it was archived. Please check our menus for latest news items.

Last modified: 14 Dec 2023 4:48pm

close up of a fern with the text help grow a strategy to protect Selwyn's biodiversitySelwyn residents are being asked to help grow a strategy to protect our unique natural heritage.

The Selwyn District Council has released its first proposed Selwyn Biodiversity Strategy for residents to view and give their feedback on. The strategy is open for consultation until Friday 15 December.

Biodiversity describes everything living on land, in fresh water, the sea,  including the genes they contain and the ecosystems they live in.  In Selwyn, we have a unique mix of biodiversity that is native to Aotearoa New Zealand.

The draft strategy sets a proposal for how the Council intends to achieve the protection, maintenance, and restoration of indigenous biodiversity within Selwyn starting with protecting what remains and then restoring what has been lost, with associated goals and actions to do that.

It is the district’s first biodiversity strategy and an important opportunity for Selwyn residents to help care for, restore, and grow what we have, Council Executive Director Development and Growth Tim Harris says.

“Aotearoa New Zealand is a special place with unique plants and animals and in Waikirikiri Selwyn we have our own unique collection of biodiversity that isn’t found anywhere else in the world. Selwyn residents have told us that looking after our environment is very important and this strategy is a chance to lay out how that can happen. Particularly to give your feedback on the goals we’ve set and the actions we’re proposing to take to protect and enhance our biodiversity”.

There are significant challenges and opportunities ahead to protect, maintain and restore a range of healthy ecosystems stretching from the mountains to the sea. We encourage people to get involved and give their feedback to help inform and grow the strategy.”

Youcan view the strategy and give your feedback online, at the Council Rolleston offices, or any of our Selwyn libraries and service centres. Submissions can also be made by email.

Drop-in days will also be held where our biodiversity team will be available to discuss the strategy and answer questions on:

12 December 3-7pm Leeston Library

13 December3-7pm Darfield Library

14 December 3-5pm Council Rolleston Offices

The consultation is open until 7pm Friday 15 December