What does a climate-resilient Otago look like? 

This is the question the Otago Regional Council is asking for feedback on, with the draft Strategic Climate Action Plan 2024-2034 open for public consultation.

Council chairperson Gretchen Robertson says it has a vision for a low-emissions Otago, resilient to the impacts of climate change, but wants to know what the public thinks.

“We want to know if our vision aligns with yours,” Gretchen says.

“Is a changing climate of concern to you, and have greenhouse gas emissions and changing climate influenced your choices when it comes to things like travel, transport, your purchases, business decisions and where you want to live?”

The survey seeks feedback on the council’s “draft mitigation and adaptation goals” and whether more can be done.

The results will help shape a plan that aims to enhance the social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being of Otago’s communities, Gretchen says.

“It’ll help us stay proactive and closely aligned with the communities we serve, as we build resilience and navigate a changing environment and climate together.”

The survey opened on Monday (26 August) and closes on 6 October, a period which will allow for the rural sector, who are busy lambing and calving, to contribute, she says.

The draft plan sets out goals the regional council will adopt and actions it will take to help the region reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the changing climate.

The plan will be reviewed and updated every three years – or more often if needed – to take advantage of emerging opportunities and ensure we stay on track to achieve these goals. 

The plan includes actions to help mitigate greenhouse gases and help Otago communities adapt to climate change, but the council wants to know if it is doing enough, what the priorities should be, and what can be built on, Gretchen says.

Some of the work the ORC already does in this area includes providing public transport services and working jointly with Dunedin City Council on a plan for the future of South Dunedin.

“We want to hear from you about your climate action priorities and what you think about the draft plan,” she says.

“You can do this by reading the draft plan then completing the survey online or in hardcopy at your local library or council service centre. Your responses will inform the development of the plan and the work we

do to implement it. Please read the draft Strategic Climate Action Plan 2024-2034 first and then have your say.”

The draft Strategic Climate Action Plan 2024-2034 can be read online, with hard copies available from council offices, service centres and district libraries.