About Environment Canterbury

Environment Canterbury is the regional council for the Canterbury region, which extends from north of Kaikōura to the Waitaki River in the south, and from Banks Peninsula to Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Canterbury is New Zealand’s largest region, with over 45,000 km² of diverse landscapes and ecosystems, including alpine and high-country tussock lands, major lakes and river systems, and some of New Zealand’s most productive farmlands.

The population of Canterbury is estimated to be 612,000 (Stats NZ), with the majority (approximately 500,100) living in Greater Christchurch (the urban areas of Christchurch City and Waimakariri and Selwyn Districts).

The purpose of New Zealand’s regional and territorial authorities is determined by legislation and central government policy, and by the priorities and aspirations of the communities we serve.