|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
- By Waikato District Mayor Jacqui Church
Clean drinking water and healthy rivers are expectations we all share in the Waikato District.
The Three Waters—drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater—are governed by strict national regulations, regional consents, and local bylaws. These reflect our community’s demand for high-quality water services.
Meeting these expectations requires significant investment, planning, and sustainable practices.
Over the past decade, the Waikato District Council has made major strides in improving water services. Our Long-Term Plan (LTP) outlines the strategic and financial path forward, ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable services for the future.
Water services are costly. Treating water, maintaining infrastructure, and meeting environmental standards all require ongoing funding. The council plans to invest $1.8 billion over the next nine years to meet current needs and future growth.
Our district spans an area similar in size to Auckland, yet only half of our 92,000 residents are fully connected to all Three Waters services. Around 46 percent live rurally and rely on private systems. This means fewer ratepayers support a large, dispersed infrastructure, unlike Auckland, where most residents contribute through Watercare, a Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO).
Stormwater management is equally vital. It prevents flooding, reduces pollution, and protects ecosystems. Our stormwater network includes over 180 km of pipes and assets, with a replacement value of $105 million. Upgrades and maintenance are essential to address urban growth and climate change.
Collaboration has been key. Over the past ten years, partnerships with organisations like
Watercare have improved efficiency and reduced costs. A proposed joint CCO with Hamilton
City Council aims to further enhance service delivery and achieve economies of scale.
The journey continues.
Rising costs, growing demand, and environmental challenges require innovation and community input. The LTP provides a roadmap, and public consultation will ensure alignment with local needs.
Council has carefully assessed our water infrastructure and obligations. We’re committed to
delivering a safe, sustainable, and future-ready water network for all.
— Jacqui
