Direction of freshwater

Sophie South has been at the 16th Annual National Freshwater Conference. Held 4 to 5 March 2025, the focus was on future-proofing New Zealand’s freshwater by exploring innovation, governance and sustainability in water management. 

As a Principal Civil Engineer at Davis Ogilvie, Sophie shares her insights on the future direction for freshwater from a farming and agricultural perspective. 

Fresh from the conference… 

Hon. Andrew Hoggard provided clear direction on the Resource Management Act (1991) (RMA) reform and its progress in three phases:

1. Repeal of Natural and Built Environment Act and Spatial Planning Act, which were 2 of the 3 Acts previously intended to replace the RMA – completed. 
2. Working with the existing RMA and passing amendments as well as the introduction of new elements, namely Fast Track Approvals Act 2024. The intention of this is to progress projects that New Zealand needs in the short term – in progress. 
3. Replacement of the RMA is scheduled for 2025. 

The shape and form of the new legislation aren't known yet, but the intent is to find pragmatic ways to allow activities and economic growth while identifying those who are, or may be, affected. 

Other recent changes enacted by the new government, which will impact those in the agricultural sector, include the following:

• review and replacement of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FM) 
• updates to Winter Grazing Requirements 
• alterations to definitions of Significant Natural Areas 
• amendments removing the Hierarchy of Obligations from being applied at a consenting level 
• amendments to Freshwater Farm Plans. 

The proactive environmental work of many in the farming community was acknowledged, particularly the many active Catchment Care Groups. Although, as other presenters at the National Freshwater Conference discussed, the data and science show a strong link between long-term changes in freshwater quality and upstream pastoral agricultural activities. 

Data capture and measurement might be the key here. Remote sensing is just one of the mechanisms discussed that could help make informed decisions. As an example, metagenomics – the study of genetic material from environmental samples – could help us understand where water chemistry is coming from and heading to. As the saying goes - what gets measured, gets managed. 

While the industry will certainly see more change through regulation and policy, for those working the land, going back to your ‘roots’ may be a good place to focus. 

Work locally – understand your catchment and what is being done to protect its water quality, riparian planting and ecosystems. Engage with community groups and encourage the next generations to be stewards of the land for the future. We all want to enjoy our little slice of New Zealand freshwater paradise for years to come.