Introduction to farming in the Central Canterbury area

Abstract

On the east side of the Southern Alps of the South Island lies the province of Canterbury. Within this province there are five district regions, North, Central, Mid, and South Canterbury (all running from the mountains to the sea and separated by major rivers), and Banks Peninsula. Central and Mid Canterbury are home to the Selwyn and Ashburton District Councils (respectively) and sit side by side in the centre of Canterbury. Selwyn District has a northern boundary with the Waimakariri River, Christchurch City, and Banks Peninsula. Ashburton District has a southern boundary with the Rangitata River. The mighty braided Rakaia River is the dividing boundary between the two districts. Canterbury Regional Council (ECAN), based in Christchurch, has control over environmental issues in the area.