Water New Zealand supports agreements between Iwi Leaders and LGNZ

“As central government puts increasing responsibility on local and regional councils for managing regional assets like freshwater, it makes perfect sense for councils to be working more closely with important stakeholders like the Freshwater Iwi Leaders,” says John Pfahlert, CEO of Water New Zealand.

“Memorandums like this one will help ensure that relevant groups have a seat at the table when local policy is being developed.

“This is a positive step and shows that there will be even greater collaboration on a local level around key issues like freshwater management, water infrastructure and other important areas,” said Mr Pfahlert.

“There seems to be a general consensus that the best way forward for some of these issues is through greater transparency between stakeholders to reach mutually acceptable solutions. Memorandums like the one signed today helps formalise this.”

Iwi Rights and Interests in Water will be featured at Water New Zealand’s upcoming annual conference on 16 September in Hamilton with presentations by representatives from Ngai Tahu and Tainui.

Ends

Contact
John Pfahlert,
CEO, Water New Zealand,
021 150 9763

Water New Zealand is an independent not for profit association of approximately 1500 water professionals and organisations, focusing on the sustainable management and development of the water environment. It provides leadership in the water sector, through advocacy, provision of technical advice and professional development. It is the principal voice for the water sector. Its nationwide network of members represent many disciplines; physical and social sciences, public health, engineering, law and management. Water New Zealand attracts decision makers and technologists from central and local government, industry, the academic and research communities, consultants and service/equipment supply organisations, who exchange information about water and wastes issues.