The government is reviewing the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPSFM) and some of the information on this page may change.
The NPSFM came into effect. We have a deadline of 31 December 2024 to notify a freshwater plan change to the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP).
Engagement with mana whenua started and remains ongoing.
The first of two planned consultations helped us develop our vision for freshwater management. Our vision includes:
Visit AK Have Your Say for more information.
During July and August 2023, we had meetings with industry groups, including:
In November a second consultation asked for community views on a wide range of measures to protect, use, and allocate fresh water. The results strongly supported improving how fresh water is managed. Visit AK Have Your Say for more information.
In December, the government changed the national freshwater plan change deadline to 31 December 2027 and said it will revise the NPSFM in 18 to 24 months.
In April, local boards shared what they thought about the proposed measures.
In May, we decided to delay the freshwater plan change notification until after the revised NPSFM is finalised and consultation on a draft plan change has happened. This timing may change.
Most work already under way continues, including working with mana whenua.
We will continue work to develop a plan change and action plans.
We will talk to the community about the draft plan change.
The Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP) plan change is notified.
Email freshwaterplanning@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more information on implementing the NPSFM.
