Hinds/Hekeao Groundwater Replenishment Programme

WGA led the development of New Zealand’s first regional rules around Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) focused on improving groundwater storage (quantity) and quality for various economic, cultural and environmental outcomes.

WGA’s innovative leadership in Mid-canterbury started in 2011 with the Hekaeo/Hinds river recharge trial testing project.

Since WGA spearheaded the development of Canterbury’s first successful 18 MAR sites leading to the development of MAR as a tool in the Hekeao/Hinds catchment. The Hinds/Hekeao MAR trial project and subsequent formation of the Hinds/Hekeao Water Enhancement Trust (HHWET) represents a project of national significance for New Zealand.

A community-driven catchment-scale approach to improving groundwater storage and influencing groundwater quality conditions while seeking to enhance and protect environmental and cultural values and outcomes is considered a game changer in water management. It is imperative as water quantity and quality are issues of major public concern and national point of debate. Implementing these rules, supported by MAR experts, is crucial to the success of this program and positive community and environmental outcomes.