Water New Zealand has launched the first ever National Water Survey as a step towards developing a comprehensive and robust sustainable water policy for New Zealand.

The survey is aimed at helping councils and water utilities around New Zealand to better understand customer needs. It runs for six weeks and there is a $2000 prize to encourage participation.

Tauranga City Council chief executive Garry Poole wants people to complete the survey as understanding the attitudes, priorities and perceptions of consumers is critical.

The survey will provide unique insight into what New Zealanders think about water use, customer service, water quality, price and payment, and what is important for the future of water.

Ultimately, the exercise will aim to encourage more conversations around water and raise the importance of water to all New Zealanders.

In New Zealand, as well as internationally, many factors are placing pressure on every aspect of the water industry including aging infrastructure and increasing urbanisation.

There has also been extensive media coverage over the past year on issues ranging from water quality in Havelock North, droughts, infrastructure capacity, investment to meet growth demands and the environment.

The survey will run for six weeks. The project is being managed and led by Water New Zealand's newly-formed Customer Value Special Interest Group.