3. The future for fresh water

Healthy freshwater resources support long-term well‑being and economic prosperity

New Zealand’s freshwater resources need to be used to drive sustainable economic growth and provide for vibrant communities.

Freshwater environments need to be healthy and resilient. Overall freshwater quality must be maintained or improved over time.

Where issues have been inherited from the past, including the degradation of freshwater bodies and the exclusion of iwi, these need to be addressed and resolved transparently, in a way that is fair to all parties.

Communities understanding and addressing the issues in their catchments

Communities need to come together to decide how to use and manage their freshwater resources. The quality of conversations about fresh water needs to improve – whether at catchment, regional or national level. Together, communities need to come to a greater understanding of the different values of fresh water, and of how these can be accommodated.

National direction and guidance is needed to support robust local decision-making by regional councils and unitary authorities, in collaboration with local iwi/Māori and the wider community. Regional plans will need to be based on sound information on the potential impacts and outcomes of different choices, incorporating local knowledge and values.

Communities and resource users should have a voice in decision-making and planning processes and have confidence in the outcomes – whether it is a requirement to restore water quality, preserve and grow job opportunities, create headroom for new activities, or develop new infrastructure. Regional plans need to be tailored to local issues and aspirations. Trade-offs need to be addressed transparently, in a way that ensures the best overall benefits for communities.

Transparent and adaptive management systems are in place

All users should play their part towards achieving the outcomes desired for fresh water locally and nationally. Comprehensive information about the state of freshwater resources needs to be consistent, accessible and regularly updated.

Mechanisms need to be in place to keep track of progress towards desired outcomes, to incorporate new knowledge, and to review and adjust the planning framework. Freshwater users and managers will need to be able to respond and adjust to new risks and pressures, and to changes in values and expectations and do this openly and through collaborative engagement with stakeholders and resource users.

Fresh water is used in more efficient and productive ways

In both urban and rural New Zealand, there needs to be a drive towards greater efficiency, productivity and adding value in how we use fresh water. Whatever their activity, those who use fresh water should adopt better practices and continually improve their performance.

Over time, fresh water should be able to be allocated to the activities that generate the highest overall benefit for communities and the nation.

New development opportunities should be created for new activities and new or previously excluded users (including iwi/Māori), through efficiency and productivity gains, innovation, dynamic allocation mechanisms, and infrastructure development.

Reaping the benefits of stewardship

The reform of freshwater management will maintain and strengthen New Zealand’s international reputation for strong environmental stewardship and as a supplier of safe, high quality products and services.

New Zealand farmers and businesses will continue to access current and new export markets based on credible environmental performance and expertise.

Iwi/Māori will have their values provided for without having to go through costly judicial processes.

New Zealanders and foreign visitors will enjoy accessible and high quality natural and cultural environments, along with outstanding recreational opportunities.