Media Statement
1 December 2006

Ministry now consulting on proposed water measuring device regulation

People can now have their say on a new National Environmental Standard that will provide greater information about how much water is taken from our freshwater resources.

The proposed National Environmental Standard for Water Measuring Devices covers the measurement of water taken from rivers, lakes or aquifers as part of a resource consent. It sets out the minimum requirements for installing and using new water measuring devices, including the transfer of data to regional councils.

A reference group of water users – central government, regional and district councils, urban water authorities and irrigation and farming interests – has helped prepare the proposed standard to ensure it is a useful and practical tool.

The proposed Standard does not apply to water supplied to households by water supply authorities or community water supplies.

“We have received considerable encouragement to develop this Standard,” says Ministry for the Environment Chief Executive Hugh Logan. “There is recognition that the more accurate the information we have about our water use, the better we can manage our precious freshwater resources.

“The government wants to improve the efficiency of water use in New Zealand. Information on actual amounts of water used is a key to demonstrating efficiency.”

The development of the proposed water measuring device standard is part of the Sustainable Water Programme of Action’s implementation package, agreed to by government this year.

“Water is one of our most precious assets. Despite the abundance of rainfall in recent weeks demand on freshwater resources is increasing and, in some places at some times, exceeding what is sustainable. We can no longer be complacent.”

A discussion document outlining the content and rationale for the proposed Standard is available on the Ministry’s website: www.mfe.govt.nz.

Anybody can make a submission. Submissions close on 16 February 2007.

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