The FW FP Auditor Role
The function of the auditor in the freshwater farm plan system is to assess whether actions in the action plan have been implemented within the required timeframes.
The auditor is also responsible for working with the farm operator to administer the audit process, and for reporting audit information to the relevant regional council.
Auditors need to demonstrate the following professional conduct standards:
Integrity - being honest and avoiding bias and the influence of others
Professional competence - maintaining professional knowledge and skills through continuing professional development
Confidentiality - keeping personal details and information secure, private, and confidential
Appropriate behaviour - complying with the law and behaving in a professional manner
Management of conflict of interest - identifying and managing any matters that compromise the exercise of professional judgment.
Competencies for FW FP Auditors
As set out in Part 1 of Schedule 2 of the Resource Management (Freshwater Farm Plans) Regulations 2023, auditors must have an understanding of the following:
(a) The freshwater farm plan regulations and certification requirements
(b) Any objectives, policies and rules relevant to the management of freshwater or freshwater ecosystems in policy statements or regional plans
(c) Any relevant freshwater matters in planning documents that are recognised by iwi authorities and lodged with regional councils
(d) The National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 and any action plans made by regional councils
(e) Other secondary legislation made under the Resource Management Act 1991 that is relevant to the management of freshwater or freshwater ecosystems
(f) The Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi)
(g) Te ao Māori
(h) Te Mana o Te Wai
(i) Sites or species of cultural significance as defined by tangata whenua
(j) Actions to manage the impacts of farming on freshwater and freshwater ecosystems.
FW FP Auditor appointment process
The appointment process for auditors involves:
an assessment of their experience and qualifications
training on the freshwater farm plan system.
Read more about the FW FP Auditor Appointment Process.