New Zealand’s freshwater is under threat from polluting industries, like intensive dairying.

Too many Kiwis can’t swim in their local rivers due to harmful bacteria and algae. 70% of our rivers are so polluted you can’t swim in them.

Three quarters of our native freshwater fish are threatened with extinction and in some areas the drinking water is so polluted it’s unsafe for us to drink. 

Together, we’re standing up for the health of our freshwater for generations to come. Learn more about the risks to our rivers, lakes and drinking water, and why it’s so important we protect freshwater.

Read our briefing to the Government on why synthetic nitrogen fertiliser must be phased out.