Work Notices

Please note: The works notice below was issued to all relevant landowners

Works Notice: Upper Ellesmere Water Race Closures

Dear Landowner

We are getting in touch to let you know about upcoming closures to sections of the Upper Ellesmere water race scheme.

Changes in land use, along with the rollout of the Central Plains Water (CPW) Irrigation Scheme, have led to increasing requests to close parts of the Upper Ellesmere water race scheme.

Following public consultation, as part of the 2022/2023 Annual Plan, a decision was made by Council in 2024 to close the water race that runs through or adjacent to your property.

Water levels in the races are currently being adjusted, and soakholes will be installed as part of these closures. While this work is underway, you may still notice water flowing through your channels from time to time.

As part of this work, an ecologist engaged by Selwyn District Council will be undertaking survey work in the area from Thursday 23 April. This work may require access to nearby properties.

Once the water race is closed, the channel will stay in place and needs to be kept clear. Although no longer used for water delivery, these channels continue to play an important role in conveying surface water during periods of heavy rainfall.

Because of this, keeping the channel open and clear will be the landowner’s responsibility, as set out in Council’s Stormwater, Drainage and Watercourse Bylaw 2025 (the Bylaw).

This work will help protect your property and neighbouring properties by reducing the risk of surface water ponding and flooding.

Council may take action under the Bylaw where maintenance issues arise, with the aim of ensuring the channel continues to function effectively and safely for the benefit of all properties.

Where Council still owns water race structures or other assets on private land, Council will continue to look after and maintain them. This will be done in line with Council’s responsibilities under relevant legislation.

To manage any unexpected water entering a channel, landowners will need to install a soakhole at the downstream end. This helps safely deal with any water that may flow through the channel. If a soakhole is installed and water begins to pond or flow back, it will be up to the landowner to take practical steps to manage that excess.

The requirement to keep the channels open and maintained will be noted on the property’s LIM (Land Information Memorandum).

As part of this closure, you will see a reduction in rates. Where you have previously paid a set service charge and area charge, you will now pay a flat rate of $65 per year which will be labelled ‘Water Race (Amenity) Rate’.

This rate helps pay for the upkeep of water races that support community benefits such as amenity and environmental values, rather than water delivery.

For more information about this work please contact Surface Waters at SurfaceWaters@selwyn.govt.nz or contact Selwyn District Council on 0800 SELWYN (735 996).