23 February 2017

Freshwater announcements build on current success

The National Policy Statement work, swimmability maps and the new Improvement Fund are a reflection of the Government’s response to growing community expectations about freshwater. Regional and Unitary Councils throughout the country have been focused on improving freshwater quality and quantity for decades. As the value communities place on this precious resource has grown so has the expectation on us and the Government’s recognition of this work is very timely.

We welcome the extra support for the work we, and other regional and unitary councils, undertake every day, said Tasman Mayor Richard Kempthorne. “Tasman has some of the best ‘swimmability’ records in the country and that has a lot to do with the actions we have taken in partnership with industry and our residents over a long period of time. It also has a lot to do with our landscape and land use.

“In taking a view of our catchments from the mountains to the sea, activities such as wetland restoration, riparian planting, land stabilisation and sediment controls have all contributed to improvements over the last few decades.
“While we have achieved a great deal already, keeping our water resources clean and plentiful is no simple task. We are working everyday within the current regulatory framework to maintain and improve the water quality and supply outcomes for our communities. Demands on freshwater resources have grown and will continue to do so. In meeting the demand for secure supplies of quality water we know we have to balance the cultural, economic, environment and social needs of our communities.

“Rivers and lakes are fundamental to the New Zealand way of life; so is a strong growing economy, as is access to water that is safe to drink. As a Unitary Council, combining the roles of the territorial authority and regional council, Tasman is in a good position to provide a well-connected response. We welcome the policy, financial and activity input and support from the Government to meet the challenges we face.

“Tasman District Council remains committed to working with our communities and central government partners to ensure the management of our freshwater resources is maintained and improved. We have a good record of involving our communities in decisions about their waterways, such as the Aorere and Sherry rivers and the establishment of the Freshwater and Land Advisory Groups throughout the District, and we are looking to the changes announced today to enhance such relationships”, said Mayor Kempthorne.

ENDS

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