Programme Overview

An outline of each of the workstreams strategic outcomes and objectives are noted below. The programme and specific projects will continue to iterate, and these projects will be a key input into the decision making and recommendations as part of the discussion document.

Workstream 1 - Site-specific projects

We are taking a proactive and effective awa and whenua management approach to the Mataura River System. This allows us to protect its economic, social, environmental, and cultural values from harm caused by current future practices and other pressures that threaten the river system. By shifting our focus from place specific intervention for compliance and flood protection purposes to intervention driven by river health and system outcomes, we contribute to the enhancement of the river’s wellbeing and resilience.

Objectives

1. We will identify up to three projects to pilot, test and trial across different aspects of the river system.
2. We will engage regionally and locally to manage and monitor the site-specific projects.
3. We will implement ecological system-focused site-specific projects.
4. We will create and implement a prioritisation framework that supports our decision making for future project investment.

Workstream 2 - Data and information

Data is collected, managed, and processed to produce valuable information on Mataura River, which supports the planning and prioritisation of projects, work, biodiversity protection and restoration. By leveraging our partners capability and capacity in geospatial asset management, our tools, data and information plays a pivotal role in the coordination and sharing of data and information, supporting decision making for ourselves and other stakeholders.

Objectives

1. We will become a key connector in the collection, utilisation, and visualisation of geospatial information to support projects and programmes across the Mataura River.
2. We will enable the prioritisation and justification of appropriate short, medium, and long-term investments.
3. We will actively work towards filling information and data gaps to enable effective decision making.

Workstream 3 - Wetland establishment

The establishment of wetlands has been identified as a potential mitigating factor for the Mataura River, with the benefit of reducing flood risks and increasing natural biodiversity across the awa. There is a need to gain greater understanding as to what situations and conditions are best suited to new wetland establishment. This workstream will be heavily supported by workstream 2 – data and information.

Objectives

1. We will develop case studies of wetland creation in place or underway to inform and guide how these work in practice, including the opportunities, challenges and lessons learned.
2. We will develop and socialise a framework to support decision making that draws together the data and information workstream and case studies, along with other key inputs.
3. We will work towards a prioritisation list of suitable sites for future investigation and development.

Workstream 4 - Engagement schedule and approach

By working with and alongside stakeholders, through empowering connections and partnerships, we will work to ensuring that all aspirations and challenges are canvassed and incorporated into our planning and delivery. Where possible, we will ensure engagement with the various whenua and awa users, with multiple mediums and opportunities for engagement with the Reimagining Mataura project team.

Objectives

1. We will collaborate with Crown agencies, including relevant councils, to understand local and regional priorities to provide input into our programme planning and approach.
2. We will engage with community groups, industry, and the private sector supporting and enabling them to be active participants in all phases of the Reimaging Mataura project.
3. We will have a flexible engagement model that includes the most appropriate mix of stakeholders, partners, and providers. We will look to further foster and create mutually beneficial partnerships and influence the effectiveness of the investments that are made.
4. We will support the community’s understanding of our kaitiaki role, and the cultural, environmental, and economic significance of the Mataura River.