To reflect Otago’s environment, we divided the region into five Freshwater Management Units (FMU).

The Clutha Mata-Au FMU, being quite large, is further divided into five rohe, which means “area” in te reo Māori. 

An FMU is a body of freshwater that is of a manageable size for setting objectives and limits. It can be a river, part of a catchment, or a group of catchments. All regional councils are required to set FMUs. 

Not sure which FMU or rohe you live in?

Use the FMU/Rohe Finder below to view which FMU/rohe boundary you reside in, or are interested in.

Ki uta ki tai

The concept of ki uta ki tai – from the mountains to the sea – recognises the movement of water through the landscape and the numerous interactions on its journey and is a key influence in forming FMU boundaries. It is a way of approaching managing our environment in a sustainable way. Ki uta ki tai acknowledges that cultural, land use, geological and scientific maps and other relevant information, all work together to play a part in long term management of the environment. 

Larger FMU are subdivided into smaller areas (rohe), to acknowledge the unique values for different parts of a catchment. They also provide practical areas for consultation.