Chief executive Dr Tim Mackle said water quality was a big issue and a high priority for the dairy industry.
The initiative highlights the work already being done by dairy farmers, other New Zealanders and other agencies, to improve the country's water, as well as identifying what can be done and what needs to be done.
The industry has been working to limit the impact dairying has had on the environment and improve the waterways for a long time.
''We have done a lot of work and still have more to do,'' Dr Mackle said.
''For us as dairy farmers, we have been on the journey for quite some time.
''The first Water Accord was released in 2001/2002 just after Fonterra was formed,'' he said.
He said DairyNZ realised it was important to ''start a conversation'' with Kiwis about working together to improve water health.
''Imagine where everybody can go swimming without being sick.
''What other countries can claim that?''
''If we want swimmable waterways, then we have to work together.''
He said they realised the issues were far bigger than just from dairying, so they decided to ''reach out'' to achieve a 'swimmable future.''
''We own our issues, and want to showcase what has been done and what needs to happen.
''We want to motivate other Kiwis to play a part [in improving water quality].
''We will get there a lot faster if everyone works together.''
He said they would be working with other media platforms to highlight the initiative, as well as provide tips for the general public to play its part.
''If I want to wash my car, I need to get it on the lawn, rather than stick it on the driveway, so the water does not go down the drain.
''It all adds up and makes a difference.''
He said they would also be encouraging children to get behind the initiative and would also work with other sectors to achieve the desired outcomes.
The initiative was funded from dairy farmers' levies.
Otago Regional Council chief executive Sarah Gardner said the organisation supported any initiative to look after the waterways and the environment.
Environment Southland chairman Nicol Horrell said it was great to see DairyNZ taking such a proactive approach.
''We are really supportive of any work being done by the community and industry to work towards improving water quality,'' Mr Horrell said.
''It will take the collective effort of us all to make the changes necessary to improve water quality and ensure future generations can enjoy this valuable resource.''
