The group’s ten urban water principles set a vision for reducing the negative affect that our cities and their design can have on water ecosystems.

“I want to see sustainable cities that have urban spaces designed for people and nature, and the principles laid out in the report by this Group are a great first step,” said Hon Nanaia Mahuta.

“The vision set out by the working group is something I will be discussing with officials to understand how we can align policy with the intent of these principles to ensure that we have sustainable urban growth.

“I thank the approximately 45 experts involved in the Group who volunteered their time and passion for great urban design and three waters infrastructure management.”

The Group has brought together a range of worldviews, international examples and sources of evidence, and has provided direction for promoting ecosystem health as well as sustainable urban growth.

“I am excited to consider how we can incorporate the intent of these principles into decision-making at every level, including policy, planning and infrastructure design and within the development sector.

“I am excited to see these principles take shape and I encourage industry and councils to consider them when planning and developing urban spaces,” said Nanaia Mahuta.