Local Water Done Well

What work are we currently doing for Local Water Done Well (LWDW)?

Kia ora, welcome to our LWDW project page where you will find details on the project, links to important information, including frequently asked questions, the latest updates, and a timeline of upcoming steps.

“Local Water Done Well” is the Government’s plan for managing water services delivery and infrastructure. There is new legislation aimed at addressing public concern about water quality and service delivery, whilst maintaining local control over water services and assets. The legislation requires water services providers to be financially sustainable by June 2028.

What are we doing right now?

We are currently assessing the options available to us under new legislation introduced to Parliament mid-December, the Local Government (Water Services) Bill.

We are also preparing a draft water services delivery plan as part of the legislative requirement to be submitted to the Secretary of Local Government by 3 September 2025. These plans must outline future water services delivery arrangements that is financially sustainable, and a commitment to an implementation plan.

The options currently being investigated for Hauraki District Council is continuing with the status quo or the creation of a new standalone entity responsible for water and wastewater, either independently or in collaboration with other Waikato Councils or potentially neighbouring councils. Such collaboration would aim to ensure the financial and operational sustainability of water services while maintaining local control.

Where to next?

Over the coming months, we will analysis the various options, with a focus on maintaining local control and ensuring the long-term resilience of our water services. We will be bringing a variety of options to Council at the 27 March 2025 meeting prior to consultation in April.

Any proposed changes to how Hauraki District Council will deliver waters services to our district will be subject to public consultation to ensure community engagement and input. As we move forward, we will keep everyone updated on key milestones, including any development of a new council-owned water services entity.

For more information and useful links please read our page Water Services Policy and Legislation.