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Mr Speaker, I move that the Resource Management Reform Bill 2012 be now read a first time.

I nominate the Local Government and Environment Select Committee to consider the Bill.

Resource management reform is a key part of the Government’s Business Growth Agenda. New Zealand needs a resource management system that enables growth, provides good environmental outcomes and is capable of adapting to changing values, pressures and technology.

Water New Zealand conference
Rotorua
September 27

Good morning.

Thank you Margaret for your introduction, and thank you to Water New Zealand for the invitation to join you at your conference today.

The size of your membership and the attendance at this event puts some perspective around the critical importance of freshwater to our country, and the role your organisation plays.

Good afternoon.

I would like to start by congratulating EDS for organising this event.

I am particularly pleased to see an environmental conference acknowledging up front that New Zealand’s economy depends on primary production.

This is to me a major advance on previous thinking which has seemed to pit the economy against the environment.

I am honoured to represent New Zealand, and to amplify the voices of the Pacific, as New Zealand is current Pacific Islands Forum chair.

New Zealand has come to Rio with a hope – that in reaffirming and renewing the world’s commitment to sustainable development we will address the future of the planet and aspirations of future generations.

A healthy environment is essential for maintaining human life and livelihoods and for healthy economies that are sustainable into the future.

Good morning and thank you for inviting me to speak to you today.

It is a great privilege to be in the company of such distinguished mariners and lovers of the sea.

I would particularly like to acknowledge the work of Captain Bob McKillop and the Navy League in fostering maritime activities for young people through the support of the Sea Cadets.

Today, I would like to outline the Government’s vision for unlocking the economic potential of our vast ocean resources.

Good morning. Thank you to the organisers of today’s seminar for providing this opportunity for everyone involved in contributing to the Zero Draft Document for Rio+20 to get together and share ideas and information on these matters which are so critical to our future.

I would like to acknowledge the distinguished speakers and guests, and especially acknowledge and thank all of you who have put many hours and much thought into your submissions.