West Coast Regional Council and Westland Milk Products (WMP) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen their collaboration in managing the dairying environment across the Coast.

The MOU was signed on behalf of both organisations by WCRC Chair Colin Smith and WMP General Manager Environmental and Milk Supply, Mark Lockington.

Colin Smith says the agreement reflects a constructive and forward-looking partnership.

“We value the opportunity to partner with WMP. This MOU sets out how we can keep working together while recognising the clear roles and responsibilities of each organisation.”

The partnership reinforces WMP’s commitment to responsible dairying, says Mark Lockington.

“It formalises the strong relationship we already have with WCRC. It will help us collaborate more effectively on environmental goals that matter to our farmers, our communities, and the region.”

The MOU clearly states it does not alter the Council’s statutory functions and does not grant either party influence over the other’s decision-making or establish any form of joint decision-making rights.

WMP is a significant ratepayer to WCRC and Westland District Council. The company has a strong record of partnering with local government on community assets and projects. This includes contributing nearly $1.5 million to Stage 1a of the Hokitika River flood protection scheme and supporting whitebait habitat enhancement work at Wadeson Island.

The West Coast produces around 2.6% of New Zealand’s national milk supply. Dairying contributes approximately 16% of regional GDP, with 345 dairy farms across more than 62,000 effective hectares. WMP is the only dairy company operating on the Coast.

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WCRC Chair Colin Smith, WCRC Chief Executive Darryl Lew and WMP General Manager Environmental and Milk Supply Mark Lockington sign the MOU.