Every day is a World Water Day in New Zealand

‘Coping with water scarcity’ is the theme for World Water Day, 22 March 2007. Water is a vital resource for New Zealanders’ recreation, economy, environmental values, tourism industry, and health. On World Water Day we should reflect on the sustainability of New Zealand’s fresh water, both in terms of supply and quality. For our future development, it is hard to overstate the importance of water to this country. We should all be looking after our water resources every day.

While most New Zealanders have enviable access to water compared to other countries, demands on our fresh water in some regions are increasing and, in many cases, exceeding what is available or sustainable. For nine regions, it was the driest February since records began. Climate change also has the potential to dramatically affect New Zealand, including more frequent and more severe flooding, and paradoxically, more droughts.

Fresh water demand in New Zealand

Pressures on water are increasing in New Zealand. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry estimates demand for fresh water will double over the next two decades. Our freshwater resource is sought after by many sectors of our society – from hydro-electricity generators, farmers, households, recreation, industry and tourism. It is not easy to balance these differing values and needs.

Nearly 90 percent of New Zealanders now live in urban areas. The pressures on water supplies and water quality in and around our towns and cities are often as keenly felt as in rural areas.

For information on World Water Day visit the World Water Day - 22 March 2007 website.

To find out what is happening in your region, see our community webpage.