Te Nohoaka o Tukiauau / Sinclair Wetlands
As part of the democratic process, it's important that you are able to give your feedback on proposed ideas, plans, policies and strategies.
Giving your thoughts and making your voice be heard is a key way for us to learn about public sentiment and opinions on certain things — What do you like or don't like? What needs to change? What should the focus be? How would proposed changes affect you or your community?
Your feedback helps to guide decision-making and outcomes in our policies, plans and strategies for Otago and its future.
Below are proposals, policies, plans or strategies currently open for public feedback and consultation.
We consult on our Annual Plans and Long-Term Plans under the Local Government Act. This follows a different process. More information is available below if you'd like to learn more about this process.
Do you want to share your thoughts on ORC plans and policies? If you're unfamiliar with the process, we provide guidance to ensure a smooth submission experience.
Unsure about what happens after you submit feedback to ORC? Understand how ORC reviews all submissions, summarizes decisions publicly, and allows further submissions. Learn about appealing the final decision if you disagree.
Council drafts a proposed plan, policy statement or plan change.
This includes consulting with relevant ministries, local authorities, and iwi.
Generally, councils will undertake some form of consultation prior to notification.
After the draft is notified the public can make submissions supporting or rejecting the proposed plan, policy statement or plan change.
The submissions period is open for:
If a hearing is required, it will be held after the submissions period is closed.
Submitters who have indicated they want to speak about their submission will have the chance to do this at a hearing.
You do not need to attend a hearing but it is helpful if the panel has questions for you. Your submission is considered exactly the same irrespective of whether you speak or not.
The recommendation of the hearing panel can be accepted or rejected during a 'decision notified' stage.
Council will consider submissions and other evidence and finalise the plan. Notifications will be sent to all stakeholders.
If you are unhappy with the final decision you can make an appeal. This may result in mediation or hearings via the Environmental or High courts. If no appeals are received the proposed plan will commence.
