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IrrigationNZ chief executive Andrew Curtis.
A project presenting new ways to improve water quality in New Zealand rivers opened to the public this month.
IrrigationNZ chief executive Andrew Curtis says the Hinds/Hekeao managed aquifer recharge project will take clean Rangitata River water and put this into the aquifer, helping solve water quality problems and improve stream flows.
"The recharge project in combination with improving farm environmental performance -- through nutrient limits and audited farm environment plans -- will allow waterways in the zone to regenerate and thrive," he says.
Water will come from the Ashburton District Council's stock water allocation via the Rangitata diversion race and Valetta irrigation scheme.
"Managed aquifer recharge is used successfully in the US and Europe to replenish aquifers for domestic and agriculture water supply, and for ecological purposes. This project is a first for NZ; a successful trial would mean other catchments could also benefit from similar projects.
"It is clear the public wants improved water quality in lakes and rivers. This is a great example of the local community coming together to make positive change.
"Politicians have called for a national approach to managing water quality, but there are many variables and complex issues. We need to be creative, innovative and work together to meet stated community needs."
Irrigation NZ is warning that the government's Resource Management Act (RMA) reform risks falling short of its objectives unless water use for food production and water storage infrastructure are clearly recognised in the goals at the top of the new system.
Winter grazing is looming again and the Ministry for Primary Industries says it's going to increase proactive farm visits and provide practical advice for farmers in the lead up to the season.
Irrigation New Zealand chief executive Vanessa Winning is stepping down after four years in the role.
IrrigationNZ submitted a briefing last month to the new Government this week on how water capture, storage, and efficient use can grow economic prosperity, support New Zealand's exports, and ensure long term regional resilience. Here's part of what Vanessa Winning, chief executive of IrrigationNZ, said:
IrrigationNZ has released its election manifesto, calling for policies that secure water for growing food.
Forestry Minister Todd McClay has today congratulated the winners of the 2026 Growing Native Forests Champions Awards at Fieldays.
The Government has announced $60,000 to provide one-off grants of $1,000 to each of the 60 New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) clubs across the country.
New Zealand’s rural sector has once again demonstrated its generosity, with the second Rural Industry Leaders Dinner, Debate and Auction raising an impressive $400,000 for the Rural Support Trust.
There has been another twist to the Federated Farmers annual election fiasco.
Analysis of decades of research has revealed the implementation of good farming practices plays a critical role in reducing nutrient losses to improve freshwater outcomes.
Yesterday the Government used the opening of Fieldays to announce a major investment, as part of its Land Use Flexibility package, to support a more productive and sustainable future across six sectors including dairy.
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