Vote for Nature 2022 - Otago Regional Council

Alan Somerville

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

The health of our waterways, because this connects up so many things.

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

Put protection of the environment first when making decisions, not as an afterthought when the direction has already been set. That’s the principle set out for freshwater in Te Mana o te Wai.

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

Voters will decide who is present on Council! Councillors should be determined to focus on the work and communicate respectfully. The choice of the new Chief Executive will also be crucial.

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

3

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

Ally with other organisations to reduce carbon emissions throughout Otago. A huge push to sustainable transport. Insist our most vulnerable people are well looked after in the face of climate change.

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

Phase out all coal use in Otago urgently. Ensure the South Dunedin Future programme is adequately resourced. Help communities plan for appropriate land use in the face of changing rainfall patterns.

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

3

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

Build on common ground – we all agree that clean water is our goal. Listen to understand different points of view and use science and farmers’ knowledge and expertise to come up with solutions.

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

Set sound minimum river flows to begin restoring health to rivers. Provide leadership in promoting sustainable farming practice and empower local groups to innovate and make positive change.

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

4

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

Set up a joint ORC/DCC management structure for improved coordination and planning. Open communication with bus user groups. Phase in free bus transport. Insist on good wages for bus drivers.

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

No

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

Yes

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

Empowering local groups to take action is one of the most effective things the ORC can do, so let’s increase the resources for them.

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

Yes. Until we have something better, 1080 is the least bad option in many situations.

Bill Southworth (Labour)

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

It is a pity that you only ask for one because my first instinct was to answer “global warming.” However, realistically the main environmental issue over which the regional council has direct control is the condition of our rivers. ORC scientists have rated 14 of them as “poor” largely because of the nitrates, phosphates and E coli which is leached into them in areas of intensive dairying. They need to be cleaned up by plantings and other techniques.

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

I would promote the funding of greenhouses run by local farmers from which plants good at soaking up harmful river pollutants could be sold cheaply to farmers to plant along river banks. I would also promote the creation of wetlands appropriately designed to trap and absorb farm pollutants. A survey of threats to biodiversity is also needed so that it can educate and direct future policy.

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

This is perhaps inevitable where you have some rural members who strongly promote irrigation interests over the health of rivers. I have experience of working on high level committees where divergent interests must be reconciled with each other. I will use this experience to promote a civilised and constructive discourse amongst the members.

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

2

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

It should not set abstract, notional goals for the reduction of methane and CO2 but seek advice from scientists as to how climate change can be effectively combatted and then implement that advice.

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

I would promote the seeking of advice from climate science specialists and then press for the implementation of that advice.

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

3

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

By advocating the setting of realistic but non damaging levels of irrigation and by beginning a drive to clean up polluted rivers.

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

As I indicated above, by promoting the planting of pollution absorbing plantings along riverbanks as well as effective fencing. Proper monitoring and control of urban water pollution and forestry pollution is also needed. Also the better elements of the much misunderstood 3 Waters policy should also be applied.

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

6

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

By the recruitment of sufficient drivers based on a lift in their wages being specified when contracts are renegotiated with the bus companies. By the continued purchase of electric buses and electronic signage at more bus stops which will tell people how many minutes they have to wait for the next bus. I also will promote free fares for children, students and Community Card holders.

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

No

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

Yes

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

6

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

I would promote a survey of the current effectiveness of pest control methods and press for change based on its findings.

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

Yes

Bryan Scott

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

There are many significant environmental issues in Otago from climate change to biodiversity to quality and quantity of water in our waterways. For me the most pressing issue is the health of our waterways.

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

1. Successful completion of new Regional Policy Statement. 2. Successful completion of new Land and Water Regional Plan by December 2023. 3. Successful operation of the new Otago Catchments Community which is focused on community improvement of waterways, and which I am a founding member. 4. Continued ECO fund supporting community nature projects. 5. Continued support of large scale pest control projects such as the Halo project. 6. Building on the ORC mapping project and working with stakeholders to establish critical biodiversity areas and corridors.

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

In my view any infighting was generally reflective of tensions in our community over the environment. For example, the setting of minimum flows for the Manuherikia River. Those that were supporting the irrigators had different views from those that put the rivers and environment first. My view is to put the environment first and to follow national rules, laws, science and work constructively with mana whenua, stakeholders and community. I am hopeful that the next Council, with a slightly different balance around the table, will successfully achieve a new land and water regional plan by Dec 2023.

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

3

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

The ORC needs to: 1. Progress identification of carbon emission inventory and constructively work with worst emitters to improve. 2. Encourage planting of native bush particularly along river corridors. 3. Make transportation improvements. eg electric buses.

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

I will support and promote the above actions.

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

Firstly, I would encourage our community to vote for Councillors that prioritise the environment and follow the law of the land to prioritise the health of the waterway - Te mana o te wai. Secondly, to constructively work with our mana whenua partner, community and stakeholders to progress our new Land & Water Regional Plan by Dec 2023 to meet Minister Parker’s deadline. Thirdly, to constructively pursue cultural changes on the ground that make practical improvements to the health of our waterways such as being progressed by the Otago Catchments Community and the implementation of farm plans.

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

I will continue my specific actions as outlined above.

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

4

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

Electric buses. Support low fares and living wage minimum for bus drivers. Make all bus locations live on your phone app. Progressively improve timetables.

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

Yes

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

No answer.

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

Continue to support projects such as the Halo project.

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

No answer.

Elliot Weir

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

Our rivers. Sedimentation, E. coli, nitrate runoff, and reduced flows are currently preventing the rivers of Otago from being drinkable, swimmable, and full of life.

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

Improving the quality and flow of our rivers, restoring riparian and wetland biodiversity, reducing regional emissions, and implementing climate change adaptation measures.     

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

I hope not. I will ensure that every conversation is held in good faith and communication between councillors is open, honest, and respectful so that the council can work constructively together.

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

The council should reduce regional emissions quickly, and work with local councils to ensure strong climate change adaptations and flood protections are implemented.   

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

Introduce an RPS to halve regional greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and reduce to net zero by 2050; decarbonise our bus fleet, incorporate strong climate change adaptations into the LWP.

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

2

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

The NPSFM is clear that Te Mana o Te Wai takes precedence over economic interests, so while I would work with economic stakeholders to ease this process – I will prioritise the health of our rivers.

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

Introducing minimum flow limits on all catchments; better regulating nitrate and other pollutant runoff; restoring riparian and wetland biodiversity; eliminating excess E. coli and sedimentation.  

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

4

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

Get drivers better pay (under the SPTF) to attract more; address accessibility issues for disabled people; introduce more routes (including an airport route); work more constructively with DCC & QLDC 

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

I would like to attempt to restructure public transport under the ORC first, and with increased coordination with the DCC, and if issues persist I would support a transfer to the DCC.

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

Yes

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

Increase funding to predator control efforts (including through Predator Free Dunedin); increase student engagement and involvement in City Sanctuary trapping.

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

Yes

Geoff Lyell

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

Fresh water quality.

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

To negotiate, formalise and promulgate the ORC Land and Water plan.

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

As a new face to the council, I will not be carrying “baggage” from past events. I am a pragmatic person who methodically researches the issues and plays the ball, not the man.

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

Focus on adaptation and mitigation measures.

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

I am concerned that pursuing carbon zero policies at unreasonable cost will leave our region and NZ in an economically dire situation. NZ has a very very good emission trading scheme (ETS) which is cost and carbon reducing effective. It is all that is required to comply with the Paris accord. I hope to bring some balance to aspirational carbon zero goals, especially while major global polluters carry on their merry way.

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

4

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

Again, by diligently studying the copious reports and submission that exist and that no doubt will continue to surface I will endeavour to support sustainable water quality improvement.

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

As I am semi retired I intend to treat the councillor role as a full time endeavour. This will allow me to talk to more interested parties more often to fully understand the issues.

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

Promote the introduction of passenger train service north and south of the city.

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

Yes

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

No

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

4

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

Continue to support current policies and consultation.

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

Yes, when no other method is available. No, on cost only justification.

Gretchen Robertson

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

Water is vital for life yet many Otago lowland & urban waterways don’t meet basic standards. Business as usual is not good enough.

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

River and Coastal Health: Identify degradation sources and practice-changes needed for REAL change. Courage to do what’s right. Native habitat: 1st priority know what remains and actively protect.

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

Destructive actions of some have generated clear community reactions. ORC is expected to be better environmental custodians. As an ecologist and facilitator, I work collaboratively. Conflict can be converted to constructive action.

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

If nobody cares locally, nothing happens globally. ORC should be a leader for organisational mitigation, regional emmission reduction and resilience.

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

Zero carbon alliance extension beyond Dunedin to regional. Regional emmissions inventory targets meaningful actions. Protect native veg and restoration investment. Resilience: river & coastal margins need space to move naturally.

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

6

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

Without healthy wai we cannot survive. An economy that erodes our natural capital is a false economy. Water for drinking, food production & industry follows a primary role of environmental guardianship. ‘Te Mana o te Wai’ prioritises correctly.

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

I stand up for a timely water plan and action now. I’m an aqautic ecologist and facilitator. I believe in supporting community-driven catchment work with the strong backing of ORC investment, policy, coordination, and compliance.

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

8

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

Ensure drivers have attractive contracted wages/conditions. Make buses a fun, enjoyable place to be. Investigate demand and adjust routes, timetables to optimise useage. Promote buses more attractively.

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

No

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

Yes

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

6

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

Support for existing and extension of predator-free initiatives. Coordination, advice and investment/pest plan support for community-based initiatives. Compliance and enforcement of existing rules.

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

Yes

Malcolm Budd

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

The current state of our waterways.

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

To work collaboratively to achieve a sustainable land and water plan that works for all stakeholders and protects animal and bird life.

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

I would hope it’s not a continued issue. However the risk remains if all sitting councillors are re-elected. If elected and with my experience I would encourage all councillors to work together and debate issues to achieve the best result for everyone, and importantly, take expert advice when needed.

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

With my expertise being centred more on public transport the first thing I would want to achieve is to have less fossil fuelled vehicles in the Otago Regional Council fleet. I would push for the fleet to be replaced with eco-friendly vehicles.

My focus would also be on having all vehicles on the public transport network to be electric or alternative fuels to meet climate change requirements.

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

Answer

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

3

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

I would research and increase my knowledge of the current situation and work towards a sustainable land and water plan.

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

Encourage the Otago Regional Council to provide provision where assistance, financial or otherwise is available to avoid effluent being discharged into our waterways. Establish ponding for irrigation storage so during drier months rivers can maintain reasonable flows so our waterways are not compromised.

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

4

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

The reason I have put my name forward to stand is because of my involvement in public transport. For the last 17 years I was employed as Regional Manager and up until my recent retirement Business Development Manager for a company contracted to the ORC to provide public transport. I am not aware of any representation currently at the council table or anyone standing who has the experience, understanding, knowledge, and commitment that I have to ensure the Otago region has a safe, dependable and sustainable public transport network. I would encourage Council to consider the ‘My Bus’ public transport concept that’s being trialled in other areas to cater for the needs of the smaller populated areas in Otago.

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

No

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

No

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

8

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

I would support methods that are less harmful to wildlife and the environment and encourage the Otago Regional Council to continue or increase their current control methods where needed.

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

No I do not support 1080 being use where other methods are not practicable.

Mathew Kiore

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

Ensuring water quality is improved so water is healthy, safe and accessible.

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

I believe in educating our community and industry in biodiversity and recruiting our people to focus their energy into programs that improve the environments we live and raise our children in.     

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

  I am interested in being part of a respectful and productive council that listens to our constituents and works hard to meet the demands of climate change and community. I stand for a safe, inclusive council.   

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

We should be investing in education and evidence based solutions that are based in the communities we serve. Our community is smart and invested, we should be drawing on the expertise, experience and ethics of our community as the reference point for our programs.

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

I will seek to promote and encourage Community lead programs and actions. I will enhance the decision making process by drawing on knowledge and experiences from people with diverse lived experience in our community I will advocate for communities and groups that receive poorer differential outcomes, and ensure their needs and entitlements are also included in the policies and programs moved through council.      

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

4

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

I would look to present the options to the community based on the proposed programs and co-design a process that provides community to choose their preferred option.      

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

I will seek investment from council into education resources and partner with public health to enhance the communities awareness and literacy around freshwater and how they can partner to improve freshwater.     

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

6

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

Our public transport is underutilised by the community, I would look first to lift the encourage and incentivise bus drivers who are in short supply. I would look at targeted public transport, buses to align with community activity, providing buses for events and activities that are a priority for the community.

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

Yes

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

Yes

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

7

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

 I would look to encourage Otago Polytechnic or Kokiri Training centre to offer pest control courses that will deliver an workforce capable of addressing the predator control issues, while reducing the need for 1080 or other poisons that impact on land and water quality.    

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

I have worked in pest control for a number of years, when I started we ran traps and hand laid poison. 1080 was cheaper, but in my opinion no more effective, even in densely forested area’s such as Waipori Falls, and Mills Creek, pre-feeding and trapping was highly effective. I do not prefer 1080, but accept in some very secluded area it is an option that can be considered, I would be looking at alternative solutions that provide jobs and healthy lifestyles as my priority.

Ross Davies

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

Climate change is going to overshadow everything, and dealing with it risks overlooking other things. The Otago Regional Council (ORC) needs to set ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions. The ORC needs to plan for the effects of climate change already unavoidable. At the same time the ORC needs to not lose focus on its numerous environmental responsibilities. No. 1 of these is agreeing on the Land and Water Plan, and implementing it.

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

Progressing the Land and Water Regional Plan. Increase environmental monitoring including water and air quality, as well as improving knowledge of Otago’s biodiversity to inform monitoring and future work.

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

There were tensions within the last term of the ORC, and given the wide range of different communities across Otago some of this is to be expected. Change also brings tensions, and I hope the ORC continues to change, and grow into its environmental roles. I also will do my best to help the ORC keeps its focus on the requirements.

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

4

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

Agree this is an emergency. Its clear it is an emergency. Its clear it needs urgent and clear action, with ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions and to plan for the consequences.

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

Agree it is an emergency. Set ambitious carbon reduction goals. Anticipate the impacts already locked in in planning from now on. Begin to anticipate future impacts based on likely outcomes.

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

First, follow the advice and the science to protect our freshwater. And where there is doubt, err on the side of the health of the water while the doubt is resolved.

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

Ensure the Land and Water Regional Plan is agreed and implemented. Ensure there are standards and monitoring, and enforcement where information and education fails.

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

Get the bus system into the control of the DCC. Or review it and ensure it’s fit for purpose, for now and for the future. If control remains with the ORC there needs to be genuine co-governance.

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

Yes

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

I don’t have information to answer this. And not sure what oversight the ORC has for city traffic issues.

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

I don't know.

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

Ensure there is regional coordination, along with inspections and compliance checks.

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

Yes

Slime the Nitrate Monster

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

We have not maximized the amount of Slime we can grow in our rivers and lakes by expanding the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer to irrigate more land to feed more cows. We must do better!

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

Slime will decrease environmental monitoring and enforcement to ensure the fertiliser, irrigation, coal and dairy industries continue to increase Slime Habitat, while choking remaining native species.

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

Slime knows toxic relationships are beneficial to toxic algae. To make money, there is no need to use our conscience for the public good. Slime has no heart nor soul, so Slime is a perfect candidate.

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

9

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

Slime supports He Waka Eke Noa to maintain reliance on corporates like Ravensdown/Ballance and on fossil fuels for more dairy/animal agriculture. Slime says higher rates for more industry subsidies!

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

Slime will aid in exploiting the last fragments of functioning ecosystems to make money at all costs, increasing greenhouse gas emissions and preventing a just transition to regenerative agriculture.     

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

9

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

We must expand the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilisers to grow more grass to feed more cows to create more cow urine to grow more slime! We can not have an environment without an economy.  

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

Slime will follow the leadership of the current ORC to demand more science to stall any meaningful freshwater reforms. Slime will refuse to set minimum flow limits so no drop of water reaches the sea.

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

6

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

Slime the Nitrate Monster can not operate a vehicle, so Slime needs public transportation to more easily travel from river to lake, expanding its way across all of Otago. Free buses for Slime!

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

Yes

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

No answer.

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

6

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

Toxic Algae and Slime the Nitrate Monster are the new predators under the current system of industrial agriculture. Slime wants to eradicate anything in its way - the Koura, the Taniwha and Wai Maori.

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

No answer.

Tim Mepham

Running for Otago Regional Council (Dunedin Constituency)

What is the most pressing environmental issue in Otago?

Establishing a land and water management plan that ensures the health and wellbeing of waterbodies and freshwater systems

If elected, what actions would you prioritise to protect and restore nature in Otago?

Proactively maintain marginal strips ensuring fencing when required, habitat restoration and public access Financially support community groups involved in habitat restoration and other conservation projects. Increase and support science work to support monitoring programs for land and water, habitat restoration and endangered species protection

The last Council saw dramatic and public in-fighting between its members. Do you think this will be a continued issue in this next term and, if so, how do you plan to ensure the Council is productive?

It depends on who is elected and what views they represent. I will ensure the council is productive by respecting the experience and knowledge of the staff of the ORC and ensuring they have the resources to do the best job possible at the same time holding them accountable for achieving the strategic objectives of the ORC

Climate change

How would you rate Council's response to climate change in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

5

How should Otago Regional Council respond to the climate crisis?

Work with DCC for a South Dunedin solution to coastal breaches and flooding caused by sea level rise. Establish a prepared Civil Defence response by resourcing with competent and committed people Establish and maintain infrastructure to combat flooding and drought

If elected, what specific actions will you take in response to the climate crisis?

Ensure the ORC has a plan to meet carbon zero targets as an organisation

Freshwater

How would you rate the effectiveness of Council’s management of freshwater in Otago from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

4

Given the government's policy direction to prioritise water bodies, how would you navigate the competing environmental and economic interests associated with freshwater management in Otago?

By completing the land and water management plan by December 2023 this will address the competing environmental and economic interests

If elected, what specific actions will you take to improve freshwater in Otago?

I am keen to explore the options of increasing the storage of water in our existing reservoirs and dams so that minimum river flows can be established during the peak summer months

Public Transport

How would you rate public transport services in Dunedin from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

8

If elected, what specific actions would you take to improve public transport in Dunedin?

I support the transfer of public transport to the Dunedin and Lakes District Council’s

Do you support some form of transfer of public transport services from Otago Regional Council to Dunedin City Council?

Yes

Do you support a switch from the one-way to two-way system?

Don’t have enough information either way to answer

Predator Control

How would you rate Council's predator control efforts from 1 (terrible) to 10 (excellent)?

6

If elected, what specific actions will you take to support predator control efforts in Dunedin?

Continue supporting Predator Free Dunedin and other community groups who are involved in pest eradication

If elected, would you support continued funding for Predator Free Dunedin?

Yes

Do you support the use of 1080 to control invasive predators in areas where other methods are not practicable, or where this is the most cost-effective method?

Yes