Government Pauses Freshwater Farm Plan Rollout for System Improvements

In response to concerns raised by the agricultural sector, the Cabinet has decided to halt the implementation of freshwater farm plans while potential changes are considered.

The New Zealand Government has announced a pause in the rollout of freshwater farm plans until improvements to the system are finalized, according to Agriculture Minister Todd McClay, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds, and Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard.

Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard emphasized that while freshwater farm plans are essential for helping farmers manage freshwater risks, the current system is too costly and not practical. "Improving the freshwater farm plan system to make it more cost-effective and practical for farmers is a priority for this Government," Hoggard stated.

In response to concerns raised by the agricultural sector, the Cabinet has decided to halt the implementation of freshwater farm plans while potential changes are considered. The Government will introduce minor amendments to the Resource Management Act (RMA) to facilitate this pause. During this period, farmers will not be required to submit freshwater farm plans for certification as the system undergoes changes.

Hoggard reassured farmers that their ongoing efforts in managing freshwater would not be in vain, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the good work many farmers are already doing. "The key thing for farmers is to make a start and keep up their efforts – their work will not be wasted," he added.

The Government plans to collaborate with the agricultural sector, iwi, and regional councils to simplify the requirements and enable more localized, catchment-level solutions. Although the rollout is paused, several regions, including Waikato, Southland, the West Coast, Otago, and Manawatū-Whanganui, have already begun implementing freshwater farm plans in specific areas.

Agriculture Minister Todd McClay highlighted the Government's commitment to improving resource management laws and reducing costs for farmers. He noted that in May, a Bill was introduced to amend the RMA, which included repealing intensive winter grazing regulations and revising stock exclusion regulations to remove the controversial low slope map.

McClay stated, "We are focused on getting Wellington out of farming and freeing up farmers to do what they do best – sustainably produce the high-quality and safe food the world needs."

Environment Minister Penny Simmonds emphasized the importance of ensuring that councils and communities have confidence in the robustness of the freshwater farm plan system. She noted that the system should maintain and improve environmental outcomes as an alternative to local rules and consents where appropriate.