Water quality is a divisive subject and proved as much around the regional council table this week.

Christchurch South/Ōwhanga councillor Vicky Southworth put forward a motion seeking a report on introducing region-wide water testing events for private well owners.

The motion passed 8-7.

Private well owners are responsible for the safety of their drinking water, but Southworth said it was about utilising “a tiny fraction of our budgets” to raise awareness of various risks.

“Making sure that people have the right information to keep themselves, their babies, their children and the elderly safe.

“It’s low cost, high benefit.”

Three testing events run via the Selwyn Waihora Zone Committee,with support from Selwyn District Council, cost an estimated $5000.

Mid Canterbury Ōpākihi councillor Ian Mackenzie said ECan is a science-led organisation but the motivation for the testing is not about science when a number of councillors don’t agree with the science around what is safe water.

He said it was more about whether ECan agrees with the Ministry of Health standards and if they “believe the science”.

“And if you don’t believe the science, then there is no point in doing any testing because nobody believes the results anyway.”

Southworth noted the annual testing report showed that 35% of Ashburton wells tested in 2023 were above the maximum acceptable value.

“That’s one area that I believe has not done these events but, if you look on a risk base profile, really should.”

Mackenzie pointed out the programmes in place in the Ashburton District that have tested over 140 wells on a quarterly basis for over four years, and that catchment groups are undertaking regular well and groundwater testing.

“The Ashburton District is very well aware of the water quality.

“In terms of being well informed, the Ashburton District is probably one of the best-informed districts in New Zealand for water quality.”

Southworth was not aware of the district’s testing regime and a risk-based approach would be required to identify the areas most in need of testing events.

The report will also consider if there is any available budget.

Deputy chairperson Deon Swiggs said a report back in February 2023 established responsibility for private single-household drinking supplies was not ECan’s.

Cr Claire McKay opposed it as there needs to be some “personal responsibility for well owners”.

“Single testing is not going to give very good information to well owners. They need to be doing it regularly.”

Cr Greg Byrnes said ECan issues consent and sets the rules so has a responsibility that people are educated and can get their water tested.

Cr Peter Scott supported the report as it was the “most emotional subject in Canterbury”.

By Jonathan Leask