Fresh water
By international standards fresh water in New Zealand is both abundant and clean. We generally have plenty of rain which replenishes our streams, rivers, lakes and groundwater. However, protecting the country’s freshwater bodies is a growing challenge. For example, water quality in New Zealand varies considerably, and in some areas water shortages can be felt at certain times of the year.
We need to look after our water resources in order to sustain our economic growth, natural environment, cultural heritage and the health and well-being of our people.
The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) is the key piece of legislation governing the management of freshwater resources. Under the RMA, regional and unitary councils are responsible for making decisions on the allocation and use of water within their boundaries and for managing water quality.
The Ministry is working with other agencies to support local government’s role, as well as providing national direction to achieve the sustainable use of New Zealand’s water resources.
This section of the site provides information on environment reports, monitoring, policy, regulation, projects, partnerships, guidelines and tools related to:
- Fresh Start for Fresh Water 2011
- Land and Water Forum
- Water quality
- Freshwater availability and use
- Land use and fresh water (particularly farming and urban development)
Links to other Ministry resources
- Flood risk management
- Climate change (on the Climate Change Information website)
- Oceans
- Water Research Strategy
- Regulations on the measurement and reporting of water takes
Last updated: 9 May 2011
