Freshwaters of New Zealand has been written by a team of eighty scientists and managers. It provides an up-to-date survey and synthesis on the knowledge of the streams, rivers, wetlands and lakes of New Zealand. There is a strong emphasis on the distinctive environment, science and management, but this is always underpinned by knowledge developed internationally. The 46 chapters cover a range of information, concepts and theories, arranged in five sections: the hydrological cycle, running water systems, lakes and wetlands, subsurface waters, and applications and issues in water management.