Enhancing flood risk management through data-driven insights
The University of Canterbury Waterways team has been actively supporting Auckland Council's 10-year programme aimed at building a flood-resilient future for New Zealand's largest urban area. Our contributions focus on the acquisition and processing of high-resolution 3D data obtained through helicopter lidar surveys across the metropolitan region.
Over the past 18 months, we have collected lidar point cloud data covering 1,000 square kilometres, achieving data densities exceeding 400 points per square metre. These detailed datasets enable the development of advanced digital models of the regional stream and river networks. By leveraging these models, we aim to enhance understanding of how these waterways will respond to future climate variability and land-use changes, improving flood risk management strategies.
Recently, TVNZ visited our team during the latest aerial survey mission to capture insights about this innovative project. Interviews with Danny Klimetz from Auckland Council and our own Dr Justin Stout provided an overview of the methods and objectives underpinning this important work.
TV One News (June, 2025)