Photo / PK Stowers

Fish & Game NZ says the Government's freshwater reform package will wreck legislation protecting New Zealand's rivers and lakes.

"This Government is trying to dupe the public by saying it is 'improving' the Water Conservation Order process, when in reality its plans will render WCOs useless as a tool to protect rivers from a greedy few for increased irrigation and intensive farming," says Fish & Game chief executive Bryce Johnson.

"Make no mistake - this is all about escalating the public water grab for private industry."

Environment Minister Amy Adams says proposed reforms should get people away from using courts to solve disputes.

Adams says water quality is deteriorating in parts of the country and it wants local councils and communities instead of the Environment Minister or the Environment Court to determine how water is managed.

How should NZ's lates and rivers be managed? Here is the latest selection of Your Views:

1. your views
2. Golden Paws says
   "I for one will not be voting National because of this arrogant mentality that dairy must be the backbone of our economy no matter who or what gets in their way."
3. Gandalf says
   "I'm inclined to think water use is more a local matter for councils and communities as local situations are all unique."
4. comments

   • Add
   order by

   • Latest
   • |
   • Oldest
   • |
   • Most Liked