Water Programme of Action: Objectives and underlying principles

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Sustainable development: Sustain the health of freshwater ecosystems

• Protect public health
• Facilitate economic growth and innovation
• Facilitate public use, access and enjoyment
• Enhance environmental protection
• Manage freshwater in the context of Māori cultural values and the Treaty relationship between Crown and Māori

Key principles to achieve these objectives

• Decision-making is transparent, participatory and timely
• Manage within the constraints of uncertainty and cost
• Respect existing rights, interests and values, and future options
• Maintain environmental bottom lines and avoid, remedy, or mitigate adverse environmental effects
• Decision-making occurs at the appropriate level and balances local and national interests
• Decision-making is underpinned by adequate information
• Water is made available over time for its highest value use*

* Value is defined in its holistic sense and not just in reference to economic value. 'Highest value use' encompasses all aspects of sustainable development: environmental, social, cultural and economic.