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We need to manage water better. And that is my challenge to you - as scientists, planners, advisers, industry representatives and users.

It is positive and encouraging knowing that, as an industry, you are looking for opportunities to lead by example.

I want to discuss initiatives from the government towards approach to better and smarter management of agrichemicals.

I believe that through innovative ‘cooperation’, we can reduce costs and improve environmental and public health outcomes at the same time.

Water is clearly our most important resource. There are many conflicts and challenges in managing how we use it.

Mr Speaker, the passing of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (Genetically Modified Organisms) Amendment Bill into law will implement one of the key government decisions in response to the report of the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification.

I want to touch on three aspects of the government’s perspective on sustainable development.First and foremost partnerships, also how the government’s leadership role fits into that partnership, second the draft sustainable development strategy, and finally I’ll touch on the international issues.

This workshop will help shape and focus the Ministry for the Environment¡¯s work on urban issues.

I would like to throw down some challenges for you, as planning professionals, as you leave this congress.

Thank you for the opportunity to open your conference – the first-ever joint congress of the Royal Australian Planning Institute and the New Zealand Planning Institute.

I hope also that the GEN Board has had a successful meeting. Environmental problems don’t respect national borders. Fortunately, we can also reach across borders and work together on solutions.

The way we manage our urban environment is important, because 85% of New Zealanders live in cities and towns.

Waste is a serious business and a couple of weeks ago I launched the Waste Strategy providing a vision and action plan to do something about it.