Growing Change

The Growing Change project helps growers to navigate the governments Resource Management (Freshwater Farm Plans) Regulations 2023, which aim to address the decline in New Zealand's freshwater quality.

Freshwater farm plan regulations

The 2023 Freshwater Farm Plan regulations have taken effect (from 1 August 2023) in parts of Waikato and Southland. Other regions are confirming their rollout which will happen before the end of 2025.

Who needs a certified freshwater farm plan under the regulations? All those with:

• 5 hectares or more in horticultural use
• 20 hectares or more in arable or pastoral use
• 20 hectares or more of combined use

What are freshwater farm plans? Freshwater farm plans are a way for growers to identify and manage freshwater risks from their growing operation using a toolbox of actions. On-farm actions will be tailored to each farm based on the landscape, activities, and local catchment.

Recent Growing Change workshop in Pukekohe

Who is the Growing Change project supporting? Growing Change will deliver ten catchment projects to support growers with freshwater farm plans in the following high-priority regions where higher water risks exist:

1. Waimea, Tasman (Mark 2023-24)
2. Mangawhero River, Ohakune (Mark 2023-24)
3. Pukekohe, Waikato & Auckland (Arjune 2023-24)
4. Horowhenua Lakes and Streams, Manawatu-Whanganui (Arjune 2023-24)
5. Northern Wairoa River & Kaipara Harbour, Northland (Arjune not started 2024-25)
6. Clutha-Mata-au, Otago (Chelsea 2023-24)
7. Selwyn-Waihora, Canterbury (Chelsea 2023-24)
8. Kaituna, Bay of Plenty (not started 2024-25)
9. Karamu Stream & Clive rivers, Hawkes Bay (not started 2024-25)
10. Waipaoa River & Poverty Bay, Gisborne (not started 2024-25)

How are catchment growers supported? We have dedicated Regional Extension Officers to support growers through the catchment projects. By signing up, growers will receive the following support free of charge:

• NZGAP Environment Management System (EMS) Add-on registration and mapping
• One-on-one advisor support time to complete the EMS add-on (available to all GAP certified growers)
• Technical workshops for additional support

How do I find out more and/or sign-up? Contact the Regional Extension Officer in your region for more information.

Arjune Dahya 027 336 4994 -  arjune.dahya@hortnz.co.nz   

Mark Shelly 027 322 5644 - mark.shelly@hortnz.co.nz   

Chelsea Donnelly  027 478 0068 -  chelsea.donnelly@hortnz.co.nz

What if I grow outside of a Growing Change catchment project area? Once the regulations come into effect in your region, all growers who meet the regulation thresholds outlined above need to develop a freshwater farm plan, at their own cost. The NZGAP EMS add-on can be used to do this for any NZGAP or GLOBALG.A.P. certified grower. Advisor support may be available in your region, if required. Further information and support can be sought by:

• Contacting your product groups (if applicable)
• Checking your local regional council website for timeframes
• Contacting the nearest Regional Extension Officer in your area for more information
• Visting the NZGAP website here