25 August 2014
Land sale highlights need for clean water rules
Concerns raised about the possible impact of the sale of Lochinver Station, and resulting increased dairy
intensification on the property, highlight the need for stronger clean water rules, the Green Party said today.
Lochinver Station sits astride the headwaters of several rivers including the Mohaka. The Mohaka River is one of 13 New
Zealand rivers which has a water conservation order to protect its recreational and scenic values. This does not protect
water quality.
“Water conservation orders don’t give rivers the protection they deserve. They don’t require controls on land use in the
catchment to protect water quality,” said Green Party water spokesperson Eugenie Sage.
“While there are protections in place to stop large dams, and large water takes, it doesn’t stop the Mohaka becoming
polluted.
“Protecting a river for its recreational values should mean protecting it from becoming polluted so that it’s clean and
healthy to swim in and raft and kayak on.
“The Green Party’s plan for rivers that are safe to swim in will give rivers, like the Mohaka, the protection they
deserve. It would ensure that councils put limits in dairy expansion in sensitive catchments like the Mohaka,” said Ms
Sage.