Local Water Done Well

In December 2023 the Government announced a new direction for water services, (drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services) called Local Water Done Well.

The Government has introduced legislation that establishes the Local Water Done Well framework and the preliminary arrangements for the new water services system. It lays the foundation for a new approach to water services management and financially sustainable delivery models that meet regulatory standards.

Local Water Done Well is being implemented in three stages, each with its own piece of legislation. The second stage is underway, with the Local Government (Water Services Preliminary Arrangements) Bill introduced to Parliament on 30 May. Together with other councils in the region we made a joint submission on this bill - you can read this here.  It is expected that this legislation will be enacted and become law in late August 2024. A further Bill providing more detail is expected to be introduced in December 2024.

One of the legislative requirements is for councils to develop water services delivery plans. Greater Wellington is currently working towards the development of a water service delivery plan in response to the Government’s Local Water Done Well policy.

The water services delivery plan must include a description of the proposed model or arrangements to deliver water services, including whether this will be achieved alone, or by working with other councils.

Work is at an early stage to examine reasonably practicable options, including continuing the status quo service delivery option, establishing a new water services organisation with other Wellington region councils.

A regional approach 

As part of exploring the options, Greater Wellington is working with the other councils in the Wellington region, and Horowhenua District Council, to develop the concept for a joint-council water services organisation that will be workable, affordable, sustainable and meet the needs of communities and the environment.

An Advisory Oversight Group (AOG) for this regional approach has been established. This is led by Dame Kerry Prendergast and made up of elected members and iwi representatives from the 10 councils in the Wellington region and Horowhenua District. Our council is represented on the AOG by Cr Ros Connolly.

AOG Chair Dame Kerry Prendergast says the councils, representing more than half a million people, are committed to the process and are working at pace to ensure the right approach to water management is reached.

Consultation is likely to be undertaken in 2025 once we have further developed options for consideration.

Council will continue to update this page as its works through the water reform process.

Read about key challenges for our council in relation to water services.