Environment Minister Nick Smith has approved a joint application from Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu  and the Department of Conservation for an amendment to the Water Conservation Order (WCO) which applies to Te Waihora/lake Ellesmere.

Currently, only the outstanding value of the wildlife habitat is recognised by the WCO. Wildlife is specifically defined under the Wildlife Act 1953 and, in the case of Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere, the wildlife habitat mainly refers to that of birds, although it may include invertebrates, reptiles, etc. “Wildlife” does not include aquatic species such as tuna (eel) or patiki (flounder). This means that the management of the lake water level carried out under the provisions of the current WCO is generally limited to providing for birdlife habitat.

The proposed changes seek to recognise  additional values including indigenous vegetation, fisheries and cultural characteristics.  The needs of farming will continue to be recognised through the lake management protocol.

Hearing commissioners will be appointed by Environment Canterbury. It is likely that the application will be publicly notified sometime in January 2011 and a call for submissions made.

More details are on the government website.

December 27th 2010