5 Key Themes
Maintain local decision-making
Maintaining local decision-making for freshwater management was raised as an important issue at all of the meetings. Increased central government involvement was seen by some as interfering with local decision-making processes provided for in the Resource Management Act and the Local Government Act. Regions and districts were regarded as having the best knowledge to make decisions about resources in their areas. Concerns were often raised that national policies could override local initiatives and solutions.
Provide national direction
Whole of government submissions which involve central government making decisions about competing national values were regarded as helpful. However, the potential for conflict between regional and national values was raised. Determining methods for setting low flows and water quality standards on a regional basis was also regarded by many as useful.
Funding for science and research
Funding for science and research was a key theme at most of the meetings. More funding for research was suggested, as well as alignment of existing funding with government priorities. Access to existing research was also regarded as a problem and suggestions were made for improved dissemination of information.
Dissemination of best practice
Councils expressed interest in sharing ideas and solutions for managing water. Central government was regarded as having a role in establishing networks and forums for the sharing of ideas and expertise. Best practice solutions were thought to be needed in a range of areas including managing diffuse discharges on water quality and methods for achieving efficient use of water.
Upgrading infrastructure
Some councils raised the need for central government funding for upgrading existing infrastructure for water management. This included considering options for developing storage facilities.
Integrated catchment management
The need for integrated solutions to help tackle water quality problems and to make informed allocation decisions was raised at all of the meetings. Integrated solutions were regarded as lacking in the discussion document. Many councils raised the need for integrated models on which to base plans, decisions and policies.
The impacts of urban activities on water quality and urban use and supply were also raised at many of the meetings. A common theme was that rural and urban freshwater issues are interdependent and should not be separated in the programme.
Recognise existing investments
Recognising the rights of existing consent holders and investments in water infrastructure was regarded as important at most of the meetings.
Increase efficiency of use
The need to improve the efficient use of water was raised at all of the meetings. Efficiency could be improved by transferring excess volumes and providing information and guidance for rural and urban communities on how to use water more efficiently. Water metering was raised at many of the meetings as essential for gauging the actual volumes of water used.
