This report presents the results of an instream flow
incremental methodology (IFIM) study on two reaches of the
Waikanae River. The study forms part of an ongoing
programme to review the minimum flows in the Regional
Freshwater Plan for the Wellington Region (Regional
Freshwater Plan) (Wellington Regional Council, 1999).

The purpose of the study was to assess whether the
current minimum flow can safeguard the life-supporting
capacity of the river. It also investigates the different
amounts of aquatic habitat availability which can vary
with the flow of the river, focusing on the current low
flow conditions of habitat availability.