2021-07-20 - What are stopbanks and how can I help protect them?
Did you know that Bay of Plenty Regional Council maintain over 350km of stopbanks to help keep you safe?
Stopbanks are our key defence against flooding. They are compacted earth banks built next to rivers and floodways to help contain water in flooding events.
No matter how well they are designed, constructed and maintained, stopbanks are only as strong as the weakest link.
That’s why protecting them from damage is vital.
What can damage stopbanks?
Did you know that a lot of things can damage stopbanks? This includes, vehicles, sheds, and structures, and any digging or excavating. Some large trees can also be a problem as roots can create weakness in the stopbank.
What are my responsibilities?
As a landowner or resident we rely on you to protect the stopbanks on or near your property and inform Regional Council of any damage.
You must follow the Flood Protection Drainage Bylaws and remember to contact Regional Council for permission before doing the following on or near a stopbank:
- Planting or cutting down trees
- Digging
- Building or demolishing any structures e.g. patios, sheds, or fences
How you can help protect stopbanks:
- Please don’t try and fix any issues before contacting Regional Council as this can cause more damage
- Report any pest damage to Regional Council
- Report anything that you are unsure of, or that doesn’t look quite right
- Don’t throw any grass or plant
Report damage
- Help keep our flood systems and stopbanks safe by keeping an eye out for damage. If you see a fallen tree, or people, or vehicles damaging stopbanks, please report it to Bay of Plenty Regional Council:
Email riversanddrains@boprc.govt.nz
Call 0800 884 880
