This paper reports previously unpublished results from an early study of instream values associated with two Canterbury Rivers, the Waimakariri and the Rakaia. The studies utilised several different approaches to valuation and assessed different types of value. The Rakaia River study estimated recreational use benefits, the value of salmon management, and nonuse benefits from protection of instream flows. The Waimakariri River studies measured nonuse benefits from protection of instream flows and the benefits from improved water quality.