Geoff Parker: Freshwater - Who Should Control New Zealand’s Water?

Author’s Note: This article represents the author's research and interpretation of the historical documents, legislation and court decisions cited below. The purpose is to contribute to the public debate over the constitutional future of New Zealand's freshwater resources. The conclusions expressed are the author's own and are not presented as legal advice. The primary sources are cited so that readers can examine the evidence for themselves and reach their own conclusions.

New Zealand is facing an important question that deserves far more public attention:

Who should ultimately control New Zealand’s freshwater resources?