Consultation on new freshwater regulations has now closed, but not before DairyNZ strongly advocated for more workable rules to meet both environmental needs and the realities of farming.
Inside Dairy
3 min read
DairyNZ and farmers are working to shape freshwater rules that work for farms and the environment.
The government has reviewed national freshwater regulations, giving the dairy sector a chance to push for more practical, workable rules.
Consultation on proposed changes to the Resource Management Act – including freshwater rules that affect all dairy farms – closed on 27 July.
DairyNZ has consistently said the current national rules are confusing and impractical as they don’t reflect how farms actually operate, and the economic impact on rural communities hasn’t been fully considered. A strong focus on numbers, such as contaminant limits, has also been disconnected from achieving environmental outcomes.
Farmers have been clear: they want freshwater rules that reflect the realities of farming, support practical on-farm improvements, and give certainty for long-term investment.
The government’s consultation was an opportunity for DairyNZ to point out what wasn’t working and suggest better, more workable alternatives. It covered a wide range of issues, including how wetlands and fish passage are managed, whether to enable more water storage, and if the 190 kilogram cap on nitrogen fertiliser is still needed.
The government also asked how Te Mana o te Wai should be applied in future, and how the economic impacts of freshwater rules could be better taken into account.
DairyNZ has been preparing for this review since the change in government, working to ensure farmers’ voices are heard. We’ve put forward a practical, science-based alternative to the current national direction – one that focuses on ecosystem and human health outcomes, rather than relying too heavily on numbers and blanket limits.
What’s needed is a catchmentspecific approach that gives farmers certainty and supports both productive farming and healthy environments.
Dairy sector input has been critical throughout the review. Ahead of the consultation closing, DairyNZ engaged with levy payers to help shape our response. Thanks to those who shared their perspectives, we were able to ensure it reflected what matters most on-farm.
We’ll continue keeping farmers updated as the process moves forward. For more information, visit dairynz.co.nz/freshwater-policy
You can also view the proposals on the Ministry for the Environment website dairynz.co.nz/mfe-freshwater
DairyNZ makes formal submissions on proposed laws and policies to represent dairy farmers and ensure their voices are heard.
These submissions are a way to influence decisions before they’re finalised, using science, farmer experience and practical knowledge to advocate for workable, evidence-based solutions that support sustainable, productive farming and protect the future of our sector.
Resource Management Amendment Bills
We supported the Bill’s aim to streamline consenting and improve efficiency for farmers. We backed changes to exclude the NPS-FM hierarchy from consent decisions, pause new significant natural area requirements, and remove impractical stock exclusion rules. We also recommended targeted improvements to winter grazing rules and clearer discharge provisions. Work continues with officials to improve the Freshwater Farm Plan regulations.
Gene Technology Bill
We support the Bill’s direction but called for key improvements: clearer trade and market access protections, better definitions to support coexistence, stronger recognition of Māori interests, a primary sector voice in advice, and a transition period of two to five years to build confidence in the new system.
Immigration Accredited Employer Work Visa Review: Phase 2
We advocated for practical immigration settings that reflect the realities of dairy farming. Our submission contributed to key AEWV policy changes, including shifting to a minimum wage +10% threshold, which delivers real benefits for farmers. We also highlighted the need for a fair, streamlined and responsive immigration system.
Vocational Education and Training Reform
We advocated for strong industry leadership in training decisions, funding that reflects dairy’s diverse needs, and stable, long-term arrangements to support investment. A sector-tailored approach is crucial to develop the skills needed for dairy’s growth and its future export ambitions.
Biosecurity Act
We supported a more integrated, sustainably funded biosecurity system with stronger investment in readiness. We also provided feedback on proposed changes to the Government Industry Agreement (GIA) and to compensation settings and eligibility, ensuring the system is fair, effective and fit for the future.
To find the latest updates of our advocacy work, check out dairynz.co.nz/policy-and-advocacy
This article was originally published in Inside Dairy August-October 2025.
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