“In the role as rural liaison, I’m going to be working on the link between the various rules and policies in the region, and the people on the ground who need advice with following those rules and policies.”

Jason’s priorities for the first few months would include advising landowners on the water standards they will need to meet by next year.

He said he was keen to get out from behind a desk and meet people face to face.

“I’ll be listening and learning from my new colleagues, and meeting the community and the groups doing great work around the district,” he said.

A former London police officer, Jason is no stranger to the area, having come to ORC from a job as Environmental Services Manager for the Waitaki District Council. Before that, Jason worked in education and compliance for Environment Canterbury.

He is married to Sally, a District Nurse working in the South Canterbury area, and has two children, eleven-year-old Scarlett and nine-year-old Jackson.

Jason can be contacted on 027 298 3460, or at jason.evered@orc.govt.nz.