The Success of the Dam

The Opuha scheme provides reliable irrigation for 16,000 hectares in South Canterbury. More than 230 shareholder farmers benefit from reliable irrigation providing a huge boost to the local economy.

A study was completed 2024 by NERA Economic Consultants analysing and quantifying various economic impacts of the Opuha Dam.  This study updated that which was completed in 2006 by the Ministry of Economic Development (MED).  NERA have evaluated that the gross economic benefit of the Opuha Dam from irrigation water and power generation is now at an impressive gross benefit of $1billion and a net economic benefit of $315m. The economic benefit is a measure of the social surplus/social value of the Opuha Dam – effectively the overall well-being or gain that individuals and groups in society in aggregate receive from the Dam.  The NERA and MED reports are available for download below under ‘Case Studies & Report’.)

The NERA study quantified the economic benefit from irrigation water both in the primary markets directly affected by the provision of the water ie, the farms themselves, and in secondary markets, such as businesses that supply to farms, industries that utilise farm inputs (eg, dairy, meat and vegetable processing, etc) and urban centres servicing the farming sector.

There are a number of other economic benefits from the Opuha Dam that were not quantified which include provision of water to residential, industrial and commercial water uses, environmental and recreational benefits and benefits in terms of flood control and it has been concluded that these would add considerably to those that have been quantified.

Opuha Water acknowledges the need for a proactive approach to management of land, and land-based activities adjacent to the scheme’s lake and river boundaries. Additionally, Opuha is committed to use of its stored water in Lake Opuha protect, enhance, and maintain the river environment for the benefit of all river users. Opuha is committed to working with its irrigators and wider community ensure a sustainable future for the river environment.

Opuha Dam Success – Case Studies & Reports

NERA Economic Consultants – Analysis of the Economic Benefits of the Opuha Dam 2 October 2024

The Opuha Dam: An ex post study of its impacts on the provincial economy and community – August 2006  This study was funded by MED through the Aoraki Development Trust

That Dam – Opuha in South Canterbury. The Changing Face of Farming – 12 June 2014  A presentation by previous Opuha shareholder director Nicky Hyslop showcasing the economic benefit of the Opuha Dam irrigation scheme, including case studies and looking at opportunities for farming and community growth, and challenges ahead.