Bluegreens

Fresh Start for Fresh Water

National is taking action to improve fresh water management in New Zealand. Our Fresh Water Package is about maximising our economic opportunities while protecting our environment.

Water is New Zealand’s most plentiful natural resource. It gives us a competitive advantage over other countries, particularly in our primary and tourism industries.

But water quality is deteriorating in parts of New Zealand, especially in agricultural areas. And at peak times, we face water shortages.

National wants to turn this around. If we improve the way we manage our rivers, lakes, and aquifers, water will help us build the stronger economy we’re striving for. It’ll also make sure we can continue to enjoy the great Kiwi lifestyle of swimming, boating, and fishing.

The following initiatives are just a start for our improvements to fresh water management. We will continue our work and make further announcements next year.

Our Principles:

• Balancing our environmental responsibilities and economic opportunities.
• Making sure we have good quality fresh water.
• Making sure we have enough fresh water.

Fresh Water Initiatives

1. Putting a plan in place

Our National Policy Statement is a framework to help local councils improve their water management. It takes effect from July 2011 and will be reviewed within five years.

• Giving clear direction to local councils on fresh water management.
• Setting limits on fresh water quality.
• Setting limits on how much fresh water can be used.

2. Investing in Irrigation

We're supporting community and regional groups to get irrigation projects up and running.

$35 million over five years to get irrigation projects underway. Proposals accepted from June 2011.
$400 million proposed investment by government from 2013/14 to take an equity stake in regional irrigation projects. This is not yet budgeted.

3. Clean-up Fund

We’re helping clean up lakes, rivers, and aquifiers, including setting up a contestable fund for communities that have historic water pollution problems.

$15 million over two years for contestable fund.
$264.8 million total commitment for clean-up fund.

Associated Media Releases:

A fresh start for fresh water

Govt issues NPS for fresh water management

Budget 2011: Lifting investment in irrigation

Budget 2011: New fresh water clean-up fund

Next steps on water reform

Questions and Answers (PDF)

Key Documents (PDF)

Water Policy: One page overview (PDF)