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Stormwater and drainage

Christchurch's waterways have drainage, ecological, recreational, cultural, heritage and amenity values.

Report a problem with stormwater or drainage

Report

As Christchurch is a very flat area, extended or heavy rainfall can cause parts of the city to flood.

Our stormwater system is being continually maintained and improved to make the city a safer and healthier place to live. The network includes open drains, pipes, pump stations, stopbanks and detention basins, as well as other structures such as the Woolston barrier on the Heathcote River.

Christchurch City Council manages flood capacity within the city's rivers and their tributaries.

Floor levels
Floor level requirements
Floor level map
Flooding

Land Drainage Recovery Programme
About the Land Drainage Recovery Programme
What's happening in your neighbourhood
Land drainage news and works notices
Reports
Flood Intervention Policy
Land Drainage Recovery Programme map

Stormwater policy and strategy
Protocol for surface water management
Te Wai Ora o Tāne Integrated Water Strategy
Waterways and Wetlands Asset Management Strategy
Waterways, Wetlands and Drainage Guide
Integrated Catchment Management Plan 2008

Stormwater and your property

Drainage plans, guidance and information about stormwater on private property.

Drainage plans for your property

Use our interactive map to see public utility pipelines and waterways.

Industrial stormwater

Building over pipes

If you are rebuilding a house or garage it’s worth checking your plans don’t involve building over a Council drain.