Government announces $7.2m to clean up Lake Rotoiti

1.00pm

The Government will spend $7.2 million improving Lake Rotoiti's water quality, Environment Minister Marian Hobbs announced today.

The algae-ridden lake was a key tourism asset but its water quality had been deteriorating for many years and had become significantly worse in the past few years, Ms Hobbs said.

Up to $4 million would be spent over the next two years to carry out urgent remedial engineering works, while $3.2m would address related sewage disposal issues through the Sanitary Works Subsidy Scheme.

The main cause of Lake Rotoiti's degradation was years of excessive nutrient inputs from septic tanks, livestock and other farming practices in the catchment.

"Central, regional and local government all have a role to play in restoring Lake Rotoiti's water quality," Ms Hobbs said.

"We have a collective responsibility to protect the health of our communities and New Zealand's reputation for a pristine and clean, green environment."

- NZPA