Regional council promoting communication via app

ENVIRONMENT Southland is launching an app to directly communicate with residents and provide a new way for them to communicate with staff.

Antenno is a free mobile app that allows users to report problems and feedback straight to the regional council, and allows the council to share the latest information about the region.

‘‘Antenno is a great way for us to provide targeted and timely information, such as events, plan reviews and flood warnings, to the relevant people without overloading them with messages that don’t affect them,’’ Environment Southland’s acting general manager strategy, planning and engagement Rachael Millar said.

Antenno sends alerts directly to someone’s phone based on the places they add. It is easy to use and no personal information or login details are required.

Types of notifications residents might get include flood or emergency warnings, community events, or opportunities for feedback. Notifications are sent based on the areas they have selected.

‘‘In Murihiku Southland we have Gore District Council and Southland District Council using Antenno, too.

‘‘If you live in these districts and already have Antenno on your phone, you won’t need to download it again to get notifications from Environment Southland.’’

Reporting problems or feedback to the regional council can be done directly through the app.

‘‘You might have noticed a source of air pollution, seen an invasive pest plant, come across a navigation hazard in our waterways, or have a new idea you’d like to share with us. Reports can include photographs, maps and extra details that will help our team quickly and efficiently respond to the issues.

‘‘This app is a fantastic tool to help keep Southlanders connected with Environment Southland.’’