Exploring an integrated freshwater management approach for the Waitaki catchment

In March 2024, Otago Regional Council and Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) agreed to a request from three rūnaka for support to investigate the idea of managing the Waitaki as a single catchment.

Current freshwater management

Management is currently shared between Otago and Canterbury Regional Councils according to a complex and confusing planning framework which makes it hard to keep track of water allocation or actual water use, and particularly hard for any organisation that operates on both sides of the regional boundary. This complexity also makes it difficult for Papatipu Rūnaka to access natural resources or contribute to achieving better outcomes for the river and land in the catchment. 

The management of water allocation and river health is complicated by separate legislation and overlapping responsibilities across regional councils and three District Plans (Mackenzie, Waitaki, and Waimate), creating a fragmented regulatory environment.

Exploring an integrated freshwater management approach

Integrated freshwater management is a comprehensive approach that coordinates the management of water resources, land use, and ecosystems to ensure the sustainable use and health of freshwater. This approach considers the interconnectedness of water bodies, land, and human activities, combining environmental, social, economic, and cultural factors into decision-making processes.

This includes:

  • Engaging multiple stakeholders including mana whenua, government agencies, industries and local communities to work together in planning and managing water resources.
  • Managing water resources within the natural catchment rather than administrative boundaries.
  • Balancing water allocation for human use with the needs of the environment to maintain healthy ecosystems.
  • Continuously monitoring water systems and adjusting management practices in response to new data, changing conditions, or unexpected outcomes.
  • Coordinating policies and actions across different sectors (e.g., agriculture, industry etc.) to reduce conflicts and enhance overall water management.

Overall, integrated freshwater management aims to protect water quality, ensure fair access, and sustainability of freshwater resources.

A working group has been formed to progress the investigation. It comprises representatives from Otago Regional Council, Environment Canterbury, Te Rūnaka o Arowhenua, Te Rūnaka o Waihao, and Te Rūnaka o Moeraki. At the end of the investigation and depending on its outcome, a report and recommendation will be made to both councils, who will then decide whether to progress to the next stage, or not.

There are many issues and perspectives to be considered, such as nationally significant renewable power generation, the rights of land-users and those currently with consents to take and use water in the catchment, and the unique landscape and values of the area.

Engagement with key stakeholders

The engagement process is focused on strategic views and identifying the opportunities and issues associated with a whole-of-catchment approach. We are therefore seeking to engage with key stakeholders and parties representing industries and infrastructure at this stage. Wider consultation may occur later, depending on the Councils’ decision to progress the project beyond an investigation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General FAQs

Working group FAQs

Contact

If you have any questions for the working group, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Email: waitakicatchment@ecan.govt.nz

Waitaki river with low flow