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Abstract
Efficient water management requires information on the magnitudes of all values
associated with water volumes and quality, both in-situ and in extractive uses. This
paper reviews and summarises New Zealand research into extra-market values
placed on water. Studies have addressed issues as diverse as maintenance of
ground water and instream flows, the value of recreational activities, and the quality
of household water supplies. Results indicate that people place high values on
avoiding further degradation of the natural environment, and in-situ values can have
a significant role in water allocation efficiency despite high consumptive values of
water.