PC1 Pause Looms as Coalition Targets Waikato Farm Rules
A pause on Waikato Regional Council's (WRC) plan change that sets new freshwater rules for farming could be announced in the coming weeks.
Farmers have welcomed the decision and are vowing to work with the Government on the issue.
Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard says that work on the NPS-FM replacement will start immediately.
“This process is expected to take between 18 to 24 months and will include a robust and full consultation process with all stakeholders including iwi and the public.”
The Government says it will develop an approach that is fit for purpose and enduring.
DairyNZ says it is looking forward to working with the government on the refreshed NPS-FM, and with councils and other stakeholders throughout its implementation.
DairyNZ general manager sustainable dairy Dr David Burger says dairy farmers will welcome this announcement.
“As it stood, the NPS was overly complex, with unachievable timeframes for implementing the genuine change our communities want to see and are committed to. Taking the time to get this right will lead to better outcomes for the environment and our communities.
“We appreciate the government’s direction,” he says.
While the consultation is ongoing, the government has announced it will extend the timelines for regional councils to notify new freshwater plans. Councils will now have until December 31, 2027 to align with the new NPS-FM. This is in line with the freshwater policy position agricultural sector partners have advocated for.
“We are pleased to see the government giving regional councils more time to develop fair, achievable regulations,” Burger says.
The NPS-FM was implemented in September 2020 and received a negative reaction from the farming community because some felt it did not suit the diversity of farms in the country. It was deemed especially unworkable in colder parts of the country and on topographically diverse sheep and beef farms.
Beef + Lamb NZ chair Kate Acland says it’s clear the current rules aren’t working so it’s good that the Government has confirmed the NPS-FM will be replaced.
She also welcomed the deadlines for regional plans being moved out to late 2027.
“We have been advocating for changes and this is a positive step in the right direction that will give our farmers some peace of mind as they head into Christmas.
“However, the most important thing is the regional policy processes to give effect to the existing legislation must stop. We’re not sure that what’s been announced will achieve that and will be watching this closely.
“Farmers need certainty and if those regional processes don’t stop, further measures will be needed to achieve that.
“Ultimately we’re looking for enduring solutions that give farmers and New Zealanders confidence that our freshwater is protected, while ensuring the ongoing economic viability of our sector and rural communities.”
