Speaking at the Environmental Defence Society’s annual conference last week, Simon Court refused to answer whether the Government would uphold existing Water Conservation Orders for rivers, as well as National Environmental Standards, under the Government’s RMA reforms.

Greenpeace spokesperson Will Appelbe says, “Everyone should be able to swim in and fish from New Zealand’s lakes and rivers without getting sick. But nearly half of New Zealand’s rivers are unsafe for swimming, and many are unsuitable for food gathering. Water conservation orders are meant to protect significant waterways – the ones that are still in a good state – and ensure that they aren’t also destroyed.

“That’s why it is deeply concerning to hear a member of the government refuse to commit to upholding the very limited protections we have for fresh water in Aotearoa.

“The primary polluter of fresh water in Aotearoa is the intensive dairy industry. It has polluted lakes, rivers, and drinking water with excess nitrate contamination, as a result of the overuse of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser. And their excessive water takes have sucked rivers dry in order to irrigate dairy paddocks.”

“Now, the government wants to allow the intensive dairy industry to pollute the few waterways that have been identified for special protection. This is a government that is letting polluters write the policy, and going against the interests of everyday New Zealanders who just want to be able to swim in their local river.”

“With a government that is overturning every freshwater protection that exists in order to please the dairy industry, it’s more important than ever that local governments – like Environment Canterbury, who have responsibility over the majority of New Zealand’s freshwater ecosystems – step up and take real action to protect lakes, rivers, and drinking water.”

“That means phasing out synthetic nitrogen fertiliser, and not allowing any new dairy conversions or intensifications to take place.”

“People across the country are standing up for better protection for lakes, rivers, and drinking water. If the politicians won’t take action, then they should expect resistance.”