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Connect newsletter

The community newsletter is printed on a bi-monthly basis and delivered throughout the district. This is a great way to stay up to date with what Council is doing in our community.

Westport wharf repair finalist in Canterbury-Westland Civil Contractors of New Zealand awards

The $6.2 m National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)-funded repair of Westport Harbour’s Holcim No. 2 and Kawatiri wharves was recognised for its excellence, innovation, and collaboration at the Canterbury-Westland Civil Contractors of New Zealand awards, held at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre on Friday night.

There's still time to tell us about your self-evacuation situation

Residents of greater Westport are being reminded our quick survey on self-evacuation is closing soon.

Free puppy socialisation classes available in Westport

Westport dog owners and their faithful four-legged friends are invited to participate in a series of friendly puppy socialisation groups aimed at developing well-adjusted adult dogs. 

Deputy Mayor position proposed for Councillor-elect Shayne Barry

Buller District Mayor-elect Chris Russell has announced his intention to appoint Councillor-elect Shayne Barry as Deputy Mayor of the Buller District Council, subject to formal confirmation at the inaugural council meeting.

Swearing in of Buller’s new council

The new Buller District Council (BDC) will be sworn in next Wednesday, 29 October 2025 at the Clocktower Chambers in Palmerston Street, Westport.

Power outage and severe weather - Buller community urged to limit travel and prepare

The Buller Emergency Operations Centre is advising residents in the Buller District to take extra care today as the region experiences both a Yellow Heavy Rain Watch (8 am–6 pm) and a Yellow Strong Wind Watch (9 am–5 pm), while also dealing with the impacts of a widespread power outage affecting much of the top of the South Island.

Update: Orange heavy rain warning 21 October 2025

West Coast Emergency Management (WCEM) is continuing to work closely with councils and agencies to monitor the heavy rain and severe gales this week.  

West Coast communities urged to prepare as severe weather approaches

West Coast Emergency Management (WCEM) is closely monitoring an incoming weather system expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and hazardous coastal conditions across the region this week.

New campaign to support Westport businesses get ‘flood-ready’

Is your business ready to respond after a severe flood or other emergency? A new campaign launching this month aims to help more Westport businesses answer that question with confidence.

Survey launched to help gauge evacuation readiness of Westport locals

The wider Westport community is being encouraged to participate in a survey to help gauge their readiness to self-evacuate in a major flood or other emergency.