The Government has announced a series of changes to the Freshwater Farm Plan (FWFP) system, designed to make the process more practical, cost-effective, and targeted, while continuing to support freshwater outcomes across New Zealand.
A major shift is that certification and auditing requirements will now focus on farms undertaking higher-risk activities, including:
• Dairy grazing
• Pig farming
• Commercial vegetable production
• Stockholding areas
• Intensive winter grazing above specified thresholds
• Irrigation of pastoral and arable land above specified thresholds
Farms that meet the Freshwater Farm Plan threshold but do not undertake these higher-risk activities will still need to prepare and implement a farm plan, but in many cases will not require certification or auditing. The Government has also increased the farm size thresholds requiring a Freshwater Farm Plan. For sheep, beef, deer, arable, orchard, and viticulture operations, the threshold has increased from 20 hectares to 50 hectares. All farms with a dairy supply number will continue to require a plan.
Additional changes include:
• Simpler mapping requirements tailored to farm-specific freshwater risks.
• Streamlined action planning requirements.
• Simplified audit processes.
• Greater recognition of existing industry assurance programmes.
• Improved catchment information designed to be more relevant and farmer-focused.
While the certification requirements are changing, all qualifying farms will still need a Freshwater Farm Plan that identifies freshwater risks and appropriate management actions. Farmers will generally have up to five years from the date the system is switched on to prepare and implement their plans, with further announcements on implementation timing expected later this year.
The Whanganui Region Catchment Collective welcomes the Government's move towards a more targeted and practical Freshwater Farm Plan system. As the new framework is introduced, WRCC will be working alongside farmers, growers, and catchment groups across the region to help them understand the requirements and prepare for implementation. Freshwater Farm Plans are more than a compliance tool. They provide an opportunity to identify on-farm risks, protect waterways, retain valuable topsoil, and strengthen the resilience and productivity of farming businesses. WRCC is committed to supporting farmers through the transition and ensuring they have access to the information, guidance, and local knowledge needed to develop effective farm plans that deliver real outcomes for both farms and catchments.
For more information about the Government's Freshwater Farm Plan reforms, visit:
• Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport Fact Sheet
• Ministry for Primary Industries
For updates on local support and resources, keep an eye on the WRCC website and upcoming catchment group communications.
