Ecological characterisation, classification, and modelling of New Zealand rivers: An introduction and synthesis

Abstract

A programme of research to characterise, classify, and model New Zealand rivers according to hydrological, water quality, and biological properties is introduced. The results are detailed in the accompanying eight research papers. These studies provide the first national perspective on water quality and biology in New Zealand's rivers using a consistent methodology. They are also the first step toward providing managers with robust models for predicting the effects on aquatic biota of changes in flow regimes and catchment land use. A synthesis of the results is given in this paper together with recommendations for riverine ecoregions in New Zealand.

Keywords:

• hydrology
• water quality
• optical properties
• periphyton
• benthic invertebrates
• trout
• instream habitat
• river characterisation
• rivers
• river classification