Govt funds for multi-million freshwater clean-up

Govt funds for multi-million freshwater clean-up
Saturday, 3 March 2012, 2:58 pm
Press Release: New Zealand Government


Rt Hon John Key
Prime Minister

3 March 2012 Media Statement

Govt funds for multi-million freshwater clean-up

The Government is contributing nearly $8 million towards the clean-up of four of New Zealand’s most badly polluted rivers, lagoons and wetlands, Prime Minister John Key announced today.

“The Manawatu River, Wainono Lagoon in South Canterbury, the Wairarapa Moana wetlands and the Waituna Lagoon in Southland will benefit from the Fresh Start for Fresh Water Fund. The fund is provided out of an additional $15 million set aside in Budget 2011 to contribute to community efforts to tackle pollution originating from poor historic management,” Mr Key says.

The Manawatu River will receive $5.2 million from the fund, Wairarapa Moana $1 million, the Wainono Lagoon $800,000 and the Waituna Lagoon $780,000. The remainder of the funds for the clean-up projects will come from regional councils and other interested parties.

“I am pleased councils and communities are working hand-in-hand with the Government to be part of enduring solutions for the benefit of future generations.
“The clean-up of these nationally-significant freshwater bodies requires a major investment beyond the capacity of local councils or communities to meet on their own.

“These additional four projects build