Project Start Year: 2025
The Puerua Outfall Structure Upgrades project is a two-stage upgrade involving culvert installation and training line strengthening on the Lower Clutha, increasing levels of protection to Balclutha and Kaitangata areas.
The Puerua Outfall Structure Upgrades strengthen key flood protection infrastructure at the mouth of the Puerua River, where it meets the Koau branch of the Clutha River. The project focuses on the river training line and its culverts, which control river flows to the sea and prevent the river mouth from shifting along the coast. Flood events and ongoing coastal erosion have damaged these structures, reducing their effectiveness.
The works replace the outfall culverts and upgrade the training line to ensure reliable drainage and flood protection. These improvements are designed to help maintain the Lower Clutha Flood Protection and Drainage Scheme’s performance, protecting the surrounding community, productive farmland, roads, rail lines, and other essential infrastructure.
Benefits
The project protects over 1,200 people, more than 480 homes, 9,500 hectares of farmland, key roads and bridges, and 50km of rail infrastructure. By maintaining effective flood control, the works reduce the risk of damage to people, property, and critical transport networks.
Adaptation
Upgrading the training line and culverts improves the system’s ability to handle future floods and cope with changing river flows caused by climate change.
Resilience
These improvements increase the long-term resilience of the Lower Clutha Flood Protection Scheme, helping the community, farmland, and infrastructure withstand extreme weather and coastal changes.
Collaboration
This project has been co-funded through central government’s Regional Investment Fund (RIF) and Otago Regional Council
The project builds on partnerships with local councils, community stakeholders and central government.. Local suppliers will be prioritised to continue supporting regional expertise and workforce continuity.
By strengthening the Puerua outfall and training line, the project ensures the Lower Clutha Flood Protection Scheme continues to protect people, homes, and vital infrastructure, keeping the community safer and more resilient for the future.
