District Plan Flood Maps

The following maps identify the areas potentially affected by flooding, poor drainage, and/or surface ponding in the Tararua District. This information is shown on 30 maps, which cover the entire District at a scale of 1:50,000, and which should not be used at a greater resolution than that scale.

In addition to showing areas susceptible to flooding associated with watercourses, areas of surface ponding are also shown as floodable areas. Surface ponding is characterised by large puddles which appear after intense rainfall. It is important to note that those areas depicted as being susceptible to flooding, and which are shown as such because of the potential for surface ponding, are likely to include areas of non-floodable ground. This is due to the fact that it is not practical to identify individual puddles, so instead an area is identified, which will inevitably include areas that are not susceptible to surface ponding.

Areas affected by poor drainage are also shown as floodable areas. This is because, from the viewpoint of designing a house or an effluent disposal system, the effects of poor drainage and flooding are very similar.

The flood maps have been prepared using a variety of sources, such as photographs of and reports about flood events, anecdotal information and field visits. Whilst considerable care has been taken in the preparation of these maps, inaccuracies can occur. It is important to note that these maps are indicative only, and have been prepared for the purpose of showing the areas in which further investigation of the risk of flooding or ponding may be necessary prior to subdivision or new land uses being undertaken.

If intending to develop or purchase a property within an area identified as being floodable, you are advised to contact the Manawatu-Wanganui Regional Council (Horizons) for assistance in obtaining more detailed, site-specific information. Contact details for the Council are shown below.

Horizons Regional Council
11-15 Victoria Avenue
Palmerston North
Monday-Friday 8:00am to 5:00 pm
24 Hour Freephone 0508 800 800
www.horizons.govt.nz