However, it does so with stern words of caution for the Government that it cannot cherry-pick its way through the recommendations. “This is an all or nothing situation for horticulture,” Horticulture New Zealand natural resources and environment manager, Chris Keenan, said.

“The intent of this report, and the three that preceded it, is clear – to maximise the economic benefits of fresh water while managing within quality and quantity limits, set by the whole community,” he added. “Achieving this requires everyone to play their part, and that’s what all sixty of these recommendations, and the ones made previously aim to encourage. 

“Only implementing some of the recommendations, and avoiding or ignoring others, will upset the delicate balance that has been achieved so far by all the sectors involved.”