Otago Regional Council (ORC) has released its summer ‘Top 10’ of things people can do in the region this summer which will protect the environment and help keep their families and pets safe.

ORC chair Gretchen Robertson said there’s nothing better than seeing everyone out and about enjoying Otago’s spectacular landscapes.

“To ensure epic outdoor adventures continue for all time, we’re keen for you to keep both yourself and the environment safe,” she said.

ORC’s Pollution Hotline will continue to operate 24/7 over the holiday period. The council’s water quality scientists will be out and about monitoring popular swimming spots, and the harbourmaster team will be splitting their time between coastal Otago and Central Otago’s lakes and rivers.

ORC’s top 10 are:

10 - Wilding conifers are a serious pest issue. When you’re out and about hunting, hiking or just enjoying the outdoors, you can help by pulling out small wilding conifer seedlings.

9 - Wait 48 hours before you swim after heavy or prolonged rain. Check the latest water quality monitoring results at the LAWA website. 

8 - Check, clean and dry your boat, kayak, paddle board or jetski to stop the spread of aquatic pests.

7 - Wash the car on the lawn and just use hot water and soap to stop harsh chemicals getting into our waterways.

6 - If you see a wallaby, dead or alive, report it to this website to help stop the spread of this unwanted Aussie import.

5 - Be a responsible skipper and always follow the safer boating code – wear a lifejacket and say no to beersies.

4 - Spot pollution? Call our 24/7 hotline 0800 800 033 and try to take a photo – it might be needed for evidence later.

3 - Ban the clam: Be on the lookout for freshwater gold clam – a pest that may be trying to hitchhike its way down the country.

2 - Top up your ‘Bee Card’ and use public transport in 10 regions around New Zealand these holidays.

1 - Keep your dogs safe – look out for toxic algal blooms, which occur when temperatures rise.