Skip to main content

Following Reply 39333 (2026), does the Minister consider reducing pollution from South Island farms to be one of the "solutions to fix any water levels that exceed the maximum acceptable value" for nitrate?

Answered Question 41043 (2026)
Question published
Reply lodged
Bookmark

Asked by

Lan Pham

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • Following Reply 39333 (2026), does the Minister consider reducing pollution from South Island farms to be one of the "solutions to fix any water levels that exceed the maximum acceptable value" for nitrate?

Answered by

Hon James Meager

Member for Rangitata · National Party · Minister for the South Island

Answer

Yes. Reducing pollution from any source can be one way of addressing nitrate levels. However, as I have previously stated, it is possible to increase farming intensity while reducing pollution levels. For example, by adopting new biotechnology and investing in on-farm improvements.