Waimakariri District Council

In November, Council's Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) staff were thrown into Day 3 of an Alpine Fault Magnitude 8 earthquake scenario as part of Exercise Pandora - a tabletop exercise involving every Canterbury council and supporting emergency agencies. This day gave staff a chance to test Council's EOC systems and gain experience working together in their civil defence functions. The types of incidents the team worked to address were landslides, major infrastructure damage, liquefaction and displaced residents requiring welfare support. This exercise is integral to Council's emergency response readiness and helps to ensure our staff are best placed to support our community when an emergency strikes.

🌏 The Canterbury Mayoral Forum launched the Canterbury Climate Partnership Plan (CCPP) on Friday. The plan is a comprehensive strategy developed by all 11 councils in Canterbury to address climate change and build a sustainable, resilient, and low-emissions future. Waimakariri District Mayor Dan Gordon chaired the Canterbury Climate Action Planning Reference Group which oversaw the development of the CCPP. He says the plan doesn’t detract from the work individual councils are doing to tackle the impacts of climate change. Instead, he says it aligns work programmes, maximises efficiencies, and provides regional solutions to shared problems.

Did you know… We’ve given out almost 7000 welcome bags to new residents in recent years! 🌟 Each welcome bag is packed with contact information and resources to help newcomers settle in the Waimakariri District. You can pick up a welcome bag from any of our service centres in Kaiapoi, Rangiora and Oxford. Here’s Martin from our Community Team and Matthew from Customer Services with bags designed by students from Kaiapoi High School, Tuahiwi Kura, and North Loburn School.

Did you know? In an emergency, our Public Information Management (PIM) Manager plays a key role in keeping Waimakariri informed and safe. They deliver clear, accurate updates across media, social media, and community networks — helping you stay confident and prepared every step of the way. Hear from two of our Public Information Management (PIM) Managers about their experiences in the Emergency Operations Centre. 📫 Stay informed – subscribe to our newsletter for updates direct to your inbox 👇 #CivilDefenceNZ #EOCInAction #StaySafeWaimakariri

In the Emergency Operations Centre, the Planning Manager plays a vital role in assessing situations and developing action plans during emergencies. 🗺️ They coordinate with teams to ensure everyone is informed and prepared, monitoring resources and strategies to keep our community safe. When every moment counts, the Planning Manager helps Waimakariri stay one step ahead! Want to meet our Planning Manager? Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates and stories 👇 #CivilDefenceNZ #EOCInAction #StaySafeWaimakariri

Take a look at Hunnibell Lane’s stunning new lighting 💡 Although the lane is still being finalised, we’re excited to share a sneak peek of how it’s lighting up the night. Keep an eye out for more updates as we complete this beautiful space!

In every emergency, it’s not only leaders who keep us safe — it’s also the dedicated support team making it all happen. Lorraine, our Controller’s PA, keeps the Emergency Operations Centre running smoothly. From tracking vital decisions to coordinating logistics, she’s an essential part of the team. With experience from Christchurch’s earthquakes to recent flooding events, Lorraine helps keep Waimakariri ready for anything. Want to know more about Lorraine’s role? Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates and stories 👇 #CivilDefenceNZ #EOCInAction #StaySafeWaimakariri

Let's play! 💃🛴🥏🤸♂️🪁🚴 Play Week Aotearoa 2024 kicks off tomorrow and it's all about celebrating the value play brings to tamariki, whānau and communities across the motu. Take a look around your house, garden and neighbourhood and see what you can turn into play 🔎🔦🍂🎨 We'll be sharing some ideas throughout the week to help you feel more playful or visit our website to see what's happening 👉 https://ow.ly/huy050TQkKq

What is a Civil Defence Controller? In an emergency, the Controller is at the helm—directing response efforts, making tough calls, and ensuring the community is informed. Want to know who takes on this important role in Waimakariri? 👇 Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive details and early updates #CivilDefenceNZ #EOCInAction #StaySafeWaimakariri

Last week, 4WD clubs, Police, the Department of Conservation (DOC), environmental groups, Councillors and Community Board members all came together to discuss how to keep the Ashley Rakahuri River accessible while protecting endangered native birds during their nesting season. Mayor Dan Gordon said, “It’s important that we bring people together on this topic.” “What was clear from our meeting was that all groups want the best for the environment, and care about the Ashley Rakahuri River. Bringing people together is the first step in solving this issue. “We stand side by side united, that as we come into the nesting season, we want to stop undesirable behaviours that put bird nesting areas at risk. It’s a beautiful area and there is room for everyone, if we all play our part.” Read more 👇 https://ow.ly/sIHS50TReaM