The decision to delay setting a flow level for the river was made by Councillors at a meeting on Wednesday afternoon last week, where they discussed minimum flow options recommended by staff.

“We need to ensure that the right balance is struck between protecting the environment and respecting the interests of landowners who need water,” Jacqui Dean says. 

“The implications of decisions around flow levels are huge and that’s why science has to take a front seat. I would much prefer this process to take a little longer and for it to be done right.

“Water security and having a regular supply of water is essential for famers and growers in the area. This process has been all-consuming for some. It’s caused significant stress and anxiety, which has been exacerbated by a deluge of other government rules and regulations targeting the rural sector.

“Farmers and growers that I’ve talked to do care about the health of the river. They just want to know that there is clear evidence for what is put in place and that their concerns are taken into account.

“There is still a long way to go in this process but it’s a relief to know that the ORC has been listening to those affected and that it intends for science to underpin future work.

“Taking a science-based approach will ensure decisions are made on facts and figures rather than emotion and ideology.”

The Manuherekia River is a flashpoint for debate in Central Otago.

Meanwhile, Otago Fish & Game has taken a dim view on the ORC’s decision to hold off on making a decision.

The Otago Regional Council has “failed to be brave in showing the way forward on the Manuherekia River”, Otago Fish & Game Council chief executive Ian Hadland says.

Ian says the “failure” by the ORC to note proposed minimum flows for the river is disappointing and has resulted in more uncertainty for the community.

"Some councillors are hiding behind the technical advisory group in seeking even more information.

"There is a solid body of information to make a decision, but they remain adrift.

"The ultimate decision on the catchment needs to be more than just science."

Like many other stakeholders, Fish & Game wrote to the Minister for the Environment before yesterday’s ORC meeting, to express mounting concerns about their intentions to delay the decision.

"We’ll never have perfect information, but we have enough to make a decision now.

"We know the Manuherekia River is in trouble. We know it needs more flow. Kāi Tahu ki Otago have shown a pathway forward and councillors should have followed their lead."