The Upper Waitaki catchment is the most distinctive and largest of New Zealand’s high inland basins, almost completely derived from glacial activity with features ranging from alpine ice fields and lakes, to braided river plains. The region has many lakes including the glacial-fed lakes of Tekapo, Pukaki, Ohau and Alexandrina that lie behind moraines and the artificial hydro lakes of Ruataniwha, Benmore and Aviemore.
📢 From 2026, new local leadership groups will replace the Water Zone Committees, building on their legacy of community collaboration.
Love Our Lakes
If you’re planning a trip to the Upper Waitaki lakes, make sure you respect the environment when visiting your favourite lakeside spot.
News and events
Check out your zone's latest stories, videos and newsletters via the news and events section of our website.
Protecting and enhancing the Ahuriri and Upper Waitaki catchment
We're working in the Ahuriri catchment to improve water quality, protect wetlands and biodiversity, and uphold the cultural significance of the area.
Upper Waitaki water zone committee
Find out about the Upper Waitaki Water Zone Committee and its members.
Local planning
Zone committee recommendations for environmental limits are given effect to through the Canterbury Land and Water Regional Plan.
Information for farmers and the community
Visit the Farmers' hub for farming rules and best practice tips.
Subscribe to your water zone mailing list
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Your natural environment
Discover the natural environment in the Upper Waitaki water zone.
View agendas and meeting papers
Use our document library to find water zone committee agendas and meeting papers.
- Find out more about our three core responsibilities.
- Find out more about our unique ecosystem.
- View upcoming meetings.
- Information for farmers in Upper Waitaki