Consultation closing soon on proposed reset of Westport Flood Protection Scheme

16 Oct 2026

It is the final few days for residents to submit on the Special Consultative Procedure on resetting the Westport Flood Protection Scheme (WFPS).

Consultation ends at the close of business on Wednesday 21 October 2026. The month-long consultation started on 21 September. It is open to all, targeting those who live in and around the Westport Rating District. This includes Westport, Carters Beach and Snodgrass Road.

For those who would like to discuss the proposed changes face to face, additional community drop-in sessions are being held at the Resilient Westport office in Westport. Project Manager Phil Rossiter and Senior Engagement Advisor Stephanie Newburry will be available on Monday 19 October, 5pm–7pm at 147 Palmerston Street, Westport. This is in addition to the usual sessions on Wednesdays from 11am to 1pm.

The scheme is being delivered by the West Coast Regional Council (WCRC) as part of the Resilient Westport programme of work. An extensive review has been carried out in recent months resulting in the need to reset the scheme to deliver a more affordable solution, that still achieves a significant reduction in the flood hazard.

This means considering:

  • The impact on rates arising from the increased cost of the scheme

  • Changes to the level of flood protection to be delivered for Westport

  • Funding flood protection for Carters Beach.

The proposed changes represent a significant variation from West Coast Regional Council’s Long-Term Plan (2024-2034), triggering additional consultation.

The main way to submit is online via www.wcrc.govt.nz/community/consultation

Residents can also collect and drop off paper forms at:

  • Sue Thomson Casey Memorial Library (87-89 Palmerston Street, Westport)

  • Buller District Council’s Westport Service Centre (6-8 Brougham Street, Westport)

  • Resilient Westport office (147 Palmerston Street, Westport) - during community drop-in sessions.

Information can also be found on the Resilient Westport website (www.resilientwestport.co.nz/special-consultative-procedure)

Hearings for submissions will take place between 2pm - 3.30pm on 27 October 2026 in Westport and will be heard by full Council. Submitters can speak to their submissions in person at these hearings, or online.

The results of the SCP will be presented to the Regional Council in December 2026 for a decision.

-ENDS-

For further information please contact:

Media enquiries:

Note, there are a number of ways to find out more and submit: