ORC staff responding to the compliant undertook an assessment of the impacts stock caused to the waterway and a subsequent investigation was undertaken. It was determined that the incident did indeed warrant infringement fines be issued under the Resource Management Act.

ORC Chief Executive, Mrs Sarah Gardner said, “We’ve completed an investigation into the complaint received and the findings were such that the nature of offending did not warrant prosecution. However, we have issued three infringement notices today.”

She said, “Landowners and occupiers in our region must all meet the same environmental standards and comply with our legislation and regional plans. Otago Regional Council is a protector of our precious region’s environment and that role means that enforcement action is appropriate when environmental non-compliance occurs.”

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Sarah Gardner – ORC Chief Executive - 0276127896

sarah.gardner@orc.govt.nz

FOR COMMUNICATIONS CONTACT:

Emma Schranz – ORC Senior Media Advisor - 0276275894

media@orc.govt.nz