Report environmental incidents

Call us 24/7 on 0800 76 88 45

If you see something that looks wrong - different to what you normally see at that spot - it could be the result of an environmental incident. To report environmental incidents in the Southland region, like harmful pollution in our waterways or offensive odours, our hotline is available 24/7.

If it’s an environmental emergency, like a time critical oil spill, always use the hotline. If it’s less urgent and you don’t require assistance from a member of our contact centre team, then you can report it online or use Antenno.

REPORT IT ONLINE or REPORT IT THROUGH ANTENNO

What we do

We’re always on call for the environment. We investigate environmental incidents in our region affecting the air, water and land under the Resource Management Act (RMA). We respond to all serious environmental incidents and, when a breach of environmental law is confirmed, take appropriate enforcement action.

Environment Southland compliance policies

What we can respond to:	What we can't respond to:
Air Objectionable odours Unlawful outdoor burning Unlawful agrichemical application Other unlawful discharges to air Nuisance smoke in residential areas	Air Noise pollution Health concerns such as flies
Water Unlawful discharges to streams, rivers, lakes and coastal marine areas Rubbish dumped or 'fly tipped' Chemical or oil spills Sediment from unlawful activity Stock in waterways Effluent discharge to water Unlawful structures in the water Unlawful water takes, uses, damning and diversion	Water Rubbish and recycling collection Blocked drains in towns or cities Drinking water issues
Land Unauthorised earthworks, vegetation clearance or excavations Unlawful disturbance to wetlands Unlawful effluent discharge to land Unapproved and unlawful large-scale dump sites Other unlawful discharges and spills	Land Animal control Littering
	These issues should be reported to your local city or district council.

How to report

Report it right – Save time and reach the right people fast by checking first that the incident falls within what we can respond to.
Call it in quick – Always use the hotline (0800 76 88 45) if the issue is urgent and please note the duration and impact on you where relevant, particularly for short-lived issues like problem burning.
Take pictures – Any supporting evidence you are able to provide could assist our ability to make swift enquiries but never put yourself at risk.
Be specific – Noting addresses or proximity to obvious landmarks really helps our response team.
Be contactable – Give your name and phone number so we can contact you if we need more information and keep you updated regarding the outcome.

What happens next?

When we receive your complaint, we’ll ask for your name and contact details so we can get in touch if we need any more information. We’ll always respect your privacy and handle any personal information you chose to provide with strict confidentiality.

Once you’ve provided as much information as you can about the breach, we will:

Investigate – this may include a site inspection, sampling, measurement, photographing and interviewing people.
Act – the most appropriate course of action will be taken based on the circumstances.

Options that could be taken include: