Biodiversity

Biodiversity means "the variety of life on Earth". It includes all individuals, species and populations and the genetic variation among them. A highly biodiverse environment provides ecosystems that are more rebuilt and resilient to disturbance. Biodiversity is important for clean air, water and food and for the pleasure and stimulation that a diverse natural environment brings to our lives.

The Waitaki District is home to a wide range of plants and animals, several of which are very rare and found nowhere else in the world. Biodiversity loss is a serious issue; without management protection many species will become extinct.

Waitaki District Council is actively involved in protecting our unique biodiversity. Below is more information about how we’re doing this.