Community

Many New Zealand towns and cities have already benefited from irrigation development. Greater agricultural production means more people and jobs in rural communities. School rolls in most rural areas are on the decline. Regions such as Canterbury are the exception – school rolls in the rural hinterland are on the increase. More people being in a community means there is a wider ratepayer base, which allows more public amenities to be funded.

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Ashburton has a population of 18,500 with another 12,500 living in the wider district. The wealth that irrigation has brought to this area has resulted in exceptional facilities for a community this size – a modern events centre, a man-made recreational lake close to the town (Lake Hood), and a secondary level hospital. Soon to be completed are a new aquatic centre, sports stadium, art gallery and museum. 95% of people living in the district are happy with their quality of life, and over 80% believe the community spirit is good or very good.

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Other benefits that irrigation schemes can provide communities include the integration of domestic drinking and stock water, and the provision of water for rural firefighting purposes.

For more information about opportunities and benefits in your community, or to share your community news, please contact [email protected]

Did you know?

The environment is being cared for. Many irrigators are working directly with environmental groups to improve biodiversity. The North Otago Irrigation Company is supporting a New Zealand Landcare Trust project to improve water quality in the Kakanui catchment.