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Southland District Council says it is actively managing the impacts of the current fuel supply challenges to ensure essential services across the district continue to operate safely and reliably.
Cameron McIntosh, chief executive of Southland District Council, says Council's priority is maintaining critical infrastructure and services that rely on diesel fuel.
One of the most critical areas is electricity generation on Stewart Island Rakiura, where diesel-powered generators are essential for maintaining a stable power supply.
Additionally, several of the district's water and wastewater treatment plants rely on diesel generators as back-up power to operate safely and meet public health requirements.
Council staff are monitoring fuel requirements for these essential services to ensure continuity of supply.
McIntosh says Council has set up a team, which meets weekly, to closely monitor the situation as it evolves, assess risks and co-ordinate the Council's response.
"This team is focused on maintaining oversight so that we can respond quickly to any changes," he says.
Staff have been encouraged to work with a range of practical measures to help reduce fuel demand where possible, including sharing vehicles when travelling across the district, making greater use of online meetings rather than travelling where appropriate, reinforcing efficient driving practices and ensuring Council vehicles maintain adequate fuel levels.
The Council is encouraging residents and businesses to consider taking simple steps where they are able.
Recommended actions include:
“We want to let our communities know that Council is actively monitoring and managing the situation," says McIntosh.
"Our focus is on protecting essential services like power, water and wastewater while also doing what we can to reduce demand. Small actions by many people can make a real difference,” he adds.
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