A new report into New Zealand's achievement of water quality targets has provided a sombre read. 

It's evaluated four contaminants —nitrogen, phosphorus, E. coli, and sediment— in rivers, lakes, and estuaries nationwide.  

Every region needs to substantially reduce at least one to meet freshwater standards. 

75% of land is contributing more E. coli to water than is allowed. 

Our Land and Water Director, Jenny Webster-Brown told Mike Hosking that the worst areas are those where agricultural production has been most intensive. 

She says it's a combined factor in some cases, with some land's geology favouring sediment and erosion. 

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