Water quality in the 606 square kilometre lake, famous for its rainbow trout fishing as well as a popular swimming and boating location, has been severely damaged by excess nitrogen from fertilisers, animal effluent, septic tanks and urban stormwater run-off.

Environment minister Marian Hobbs Friday announced a partnership with the local authority and indigenous Maori tribal groups to change land use in order to halt the pollution.

Taupo Mayor Clayton Stent said that while farming was a vital part of the local economy, its effects on the environment had to be managed.

"If we don't preserve the lake then really the district is under threat economically. It's the biggest drawcard that we have and I think the government is acknowledging that by involving themselves," he said.

The aim of the plan is to reduce the amount of nitrogen entering the lake by 20 percent over the next 15 years.

Scientists warn that although Lake Taupo is not in danger of immediate catastrophe, its water quality is likely to deteriorate further, the Herald said.

TERRA.WIRE