We analysed interviews with key people involved in the Opuha Dam scheme in South Canterbury, council officers and members of the local Fairlie community.
Findings
- The Opuha Dam scheme has been hailed as successful by many. The ability to trade, lease or sell shares is an important component of the Opuha scheme. Our research has shown that there is potential for real benefits from transferring water for farmers, shareholders and the wider community.
- We also uncovered a range of factors that may inhibit transfer or that may create barriers to acceptance by all. Having an understandable, flexible and adaptable scheme that accounts for uncertainties and regulatory change will help to achieve a system that works well.
- Open debate on the diversity of views and methods for including the range of views will also help to facilitate acceptance, as will the use of processes that are inclusive and participatory.
- Principles of equity and fairness are increasingly being recognised.
- Further research will be required to establish methods that for include equity and fairness in both policy and action. This will be important for any resource allocation mechanisms.
- Property rights issues will require further discussion in New Zealand, particularly as more trading and transfer takes place.
Lake Opuha
Opuha case study output:
Lange, M., Wood, D., and Winstanley, A. (2006), ‘Water Trading in New Zealand. Grappling with the Issues’. A Capability Fund Report internal to ESR. (pdf document opens in a new window)
Lange, M., Wood, D., and Winstanley, A. (2006), ‘Water Transfer in Practice. Some issues revealed’. Paper presented to New Zealand Water and Waste Association 48th Annual Conference, Christchurch 11-13 October. (pdf document opens in a new window)
Lange, M., Wood, D., and Winstanley, A. (2006), ‘Water Transfer in Context – A New Zealand Case Study’. Paper presented to NZ Association of Resource Management, NZ Hydrological Society and Meteorological Society of NZ joint conference ‘Resource Management under Stormy Skies: Water Allocation @ the Crossroads?’, Christchurch 20-23 November. (pdf document opens in a new window)