science and research
Southland has proved to have all the right elements for the foundations of a number of science and research projects. Southland offers both urban and rural environments at a longitude ranging between 45° South on the mainland to 52° in the Sub Antarctic Islands, making Southland well suited for radio astronomy, ionosphere research and tracking of some space related projects. The landscape of the region ranges from glacially carved mountain ranges ‑ up to 2,756 m (9,042 ft), ancient volcanos and glaciers in the west, internationally significant wetlands in the east, Sub Antarctic islands in the south, to rolling farmland in the north of the region. The coastal marine environment ranges from the rough seas, including the “roaring 40’s and 50’s”, deep sea ecosystems to numerous uninhabited sheltered enclaves. Many unique species of native plants and animals are found in these habitats, as well as a number of introduced species.
These elements have drawn many scientists to the region and this high level of expertise is seeing Southland develop as a centre of excellence in some science related fields. An example of this is with regards to pest control programmes ‑ particularly on offshore islands, and the opportunity this provides for endangered species survival. Many of these areas and the native species on them are protected through the careful management of the Department of Conservation. In some situations, the pest control programmes themselves have revealed opportunities for research.
Organisations such as the Southern Institute of Technology, Healthcare consultants, Environment Southland (the statutory body responsible for managing our natural and physical resources of air, land, water and coast), Department of Conservation (the statutory body responsible for promoting conservation of natural and historic resources) and other government organisations undertake a range of research projects within Southland.
The Cowshed Project was aimed at assisting dairy farmers in adopting efficient energy use. This project was initiated by Venture Southland as a result of the regional Energy Strategy and the high number of sheep to dairy farm conversions. Topoclimate research for analysis of soil and climate conditions in Southland has been undertaken to assist a range of land users, in particular farming related businesses. The Crops for Southland group’s goal is the development of privately owned, market based commercial cropping of a significant scale for southern New Zealand. Part of the strategy to achieve the organisation’s goal involves research with technology transfer and on-farm support also being key aspects.
Southland’s Advantages
- Diverse landscape
- Unique flora and fauna
- Accessible sea ecosystems
- Varying levels of seismic activity throughout the region
- Geographical position makes it the southernmost part of New Zealand and the most south-eastern part of Australasia
- Long summer daylight hours
- Temperate climate
- Long term stability of political and economic environment
- High level of physical security
- Availability of freehold land purchase
- Sound infrastructure support
- Professional business support services
- Track record in science and research related projects
- Strong science and technology capabilities
- High level of broadband Internet coverage and other telecommunications
- Research and education network KAREN (Kiwi Advanced Research and Education Network), aimed at providing advanced opportunities for schools, tertiary institutions and other research projects passes through Southland.