# New Zealand agricultural water infrastructure debate > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-agricultural-water-infrastructure-debate > Updated: 2026-10-21T03:30:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. Discussions regarding water storage and infrastructure in New Zealand have centered on the need for improved management models and policy stability. Federated Farmers has proposed adopting a coordinated approach similar to the Tasmanian model, which utilizes a dedicated entity to provide specialized expertise and consistent standards for water projects. This is intended to address recurring issues such as financing difficulties and the loss of institutional knowledge during project development. As the country approaches a general election, rural communities are highlighting the economic impact of water access. For example, the presence of a government-built reservoir has been credited with supporting horticulture in Kerikeri, while areas lacking managed water access have faced economic struggles. In response, Federated Farmers is advocating for increased government investment and reduced regulatory hurdles for on-farm storage. The organization has expressed support for a National Party proposal involving $300 million in concessional loans for water projects. Additionally, industry members have called for long-term policy stability and updates to outdated legislation, such as the Sharemilking Act, to support agricultural business planning. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-21: New Zealand farmers highlight water access and policy stability ahead of election New Zealand farmers are calling for improved water infrastructure and legislative updates like the Sharemilking Act as the general election approaches. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-zealand-farmers-highlight-water-access-and-policy-stability-ahead-of-election ### 2026-09-23: New Zealand water storage: Proposal to adopt Tasmanian model Federated Farmers spokesperson Richard Dawkins proposes that New Zealand adopt Tasmania’s centralized water storage model to overcome recurring issues with funding, consenting, and project expertise. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-zealand-water-storage-proposal-to-adopt-tasmanian-model --- Cite as: New Zealand agricultural water infrastructure debate. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-agricultural-water-infrastructure-debate