The abstraction of freshwater in New Zealand is managed under the Resource Management Act 1991 to protect the environment. Water users generally have to apply for resource consents to take fresh water from its source. As part of the consent the volume of water abstracted must be recorded. This water take data is critical for Environment Southland to manage the freshwater resource in Southland effectively. This includes making efficient use of allocated water, managing groups of water users, monitoring compliance as well as understanding our water resources and ecosystem responses allowing us to plan for the future.
In November 2010 the Resource Management Regulations 2010 (Measurement and Reporting of Water Takes) came into effect, applying to water permits taking 5 litres per second or more. Since 10 November 2016, water takes of 5 litres/sec or more need to be measured and reported.
For information about groundwater and bore maintenance, read our 'How well is your well' factsheet or visit our groundwater page.
