Otago Regional Council

Dunstan Constituency
The Otago Regional Council makes decisions about managing resources in the region, such as air, water, soil and the coastline. It also carries out plant and pest control, helps prepare for natural disasters, and is involved in regional transport. The council is made up of 11 councillors. Councillors are elected to represent constituencies (areas in the region). Three councillors will be elected from the Dunstan constituency. This is a first past the post (FPP) election, so you vote by ticking the name of your preferred candidate on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Otago Regional Council election.

Climate change and resilience

Climate change poses a huge challenge for communities as more frequent extreme weather events require us to rethink how we live and where. Local authorities are at the forefront of efforts to respond, with responsibilities for environmental planning and regulation, as well as civil defence. Many councils have plans to reduce emissions in their area and are working to help their communities adapt to a warming world.

Climate change and resilience

Climate change poses a huge challenge for communities as more frequent extreme weather events require us to rethink how we live and where. Local authorities are at the forefront of efforts to respond, with responsibilities for environmental planning and regulation, as well as civil defence. Many councils have plans to reduce emissions in their area and are working to help their communities adapt to a warming world.

  • Advocate for better public transport in our region affordable to everybody. Support better cycleways particularly in urban areas.

    Support policies to reduce or even ban urban development in areas close to flood zones.

    Ensure civil defence plans are adequate in the event of a major earthquake in Central Otago, strongly predicted by seismologists.

  • Ensure sound and robust science is gathered.

    Engage in debate to ensure decision-making is based on science and long-term outcomes are achieved.

    Require meaningful and comprehensive consultation with affected people and community.

  • Central government has primary responsibility to set policies and priorities. Nothing more dangerous than 70-odd councils going it alone.

    Civil Defence is currently funded with $3m plus of Otago Regional Council ratepayer monies and has been re-organised in Otago. Self-reliance is still the key.

    Earthquake strengthening policies are seriously over-the-top and destroying heritage buildings all over NZ.

  • Drive overarching transport, air and fresh water policies that mitigate the impacts of climate change.

    Support communities to adapt to climate change impacts by making sure hazards are identified and by helping them develop resilience plans.

    Commit to the implementation of government policy such as Te Mana o te Wai and other environmental directions.

  • Continue to play the lead role in civil defence throughout Otago.

  • Advocate for better public transport in our region affordable to everybody. Support better cycleways particularly in urban areas.

    Support policies to reduce or even ban urban development in areas close to flood zones.

    Ensure civil defence plans are adequate in the event of a major earthquake in Central Otago, strongly predicted by seismologists.

  • Ensure sound and robust science is gathered.

    Engage in debate to ensure decision-making is based on science and long-term outcomes are achieved.

    Require meaningful and comprehensive consultation with affected people and community.

  • Central government has primary responsibility to set policies and priorities. Nothing more dangerous than 70-odd councils going it alone.

    Civil Defence is currently funded with $3m plus of Otago Regional Council ratepayer monies and has been re-organised in Otago. Self-reliance is still the key.

    Earthquake strengthening policies are seriously over-the-top and destroying heritage buildings all over NZ.

  • Drive overarching transport, air and fresh water policies that mitigate the impacts of climate change.

    Support communities to adapt to climate change impacts by making sure hazards are identified and by helping them develop resilience plans.

    Commit to the implementation of government policy such as Te Mana o te Wai and other environmental directions.

  • Continue to play the lead role in civil defence throughout Otago.