What advice, reports, aide memoires, or other briefing documents has the Associate Minister received, if any, given his delegation for Catchment Groups, about catchment groups and the outcomes they have achieved?

Answer

I refer the member to the attached table. Catchment groups are an important part of how this Government supports better land use, improved environmental outcomes, and stronger rural communities. They are farmer and community-led, locally grounded, and focused on practical action. In Budget 2026 the Government committed $40.5 million over the next four years to continue backing rural catchment groups and collectives. In the 2026/27 year, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) will have $13.5 million to support catchment groups, including some previously supported by the Ministry for the Environment and those backed by the New Zealand Landcare Trust. MPI is supporting 51 rural catchment groups and collectives across New Zealand in 2026/27. This is a significant and ongoing commitment to the catchment movement. This investment supports environmentally sustainable farming practices among farmers and iwi landowners, improves catchment management, enhances natural habitat and biodiversity on farms and catchments, and funds targeted regional initiatives.

Answer attachment

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