Fight to stop Belfast water bottling company operations not over

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch
Oct 14, 2020 |

Aotearoa Water Action is appealing a High Court decision allowing bottling companies to continue and expand their operations.

The High Court in Christchurch in June ruled Environment Canterbury correctly applied the law and did not exceed its jurisdiction in approving consents for Belfast based Cloud Ocean Water.

The decision means the company can continue bottling and exporting water from Christchurch aquifers. 

Aotearoa Water Action says “it allows for a combined water take of 8 million cubic metres every year for water bottling and it effectively allows regional councils to convert irrigation and industrial consents to water bottling without being able to change the volume or rate of the water take.”

In a statement released today the group said its sought legal advice and believes an appeal  is winnable.

”This battle is our battle for our water and for future generations.”

“Unfortunately our government is still doing nothing to address this issue and so it’s up to everyday Kiwis like us to make our voices heard.”

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch

Chris Lynch is a journalist, videographer and content producer, broadcasting from his independent news and production company in Christchurch, New Zealand. If you have a news tip or are interested in video content, email [email protected]

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