Protesters fight to protect some of the world's clearest water near Nelson

Campaigners staged a colourful protest outside the Tasman District Council offices today, in defence of a sacred spring.

More than 13,000 people have signed a petition to protect Te Waikorupupu Springs, demanding a guarantee there'll be no new water consents granted in the area.

"I regard it as the wonder of the world. Clearest water in the world," protester Joanna told 1 NEWS.

Golden Bay resident Trevor Koberstein left home at 5am in morning to make the trip to Richmond over the Takaka hill.

He joined a sea of supporters dressed in blue, who sang and chanted alongside samba drummers and a giant puppet before handing over the petition.

An application to give Te Waikorupupu Springs the highest level of protection is currently before a special tribunal.

At the same time, a community consultation‘s underway, looking at water use in the Takaka catchment.

But while both are in progress, there's nothing to stop groups from asking to use more water

"It's very clear, there is a list there of 11 people who are applying, who could apply tomorrow basically," Save Our Springs Coordinator Kevin Moran says.

"They're sitting there wanting more water now".

A Water Conservation Order can prohibit or restrict a council from issuing new water and discharge permits, although it cannot affect existing permits.

However, Tasman mayor Richard Kempthorne says legally, the council can’t refuse to accept or action applications for water consents.

"The council is committed to having a good water plan for the Takaka River. Te Waikorupupu Springs is part of that catchment".