Community consultation on the future delivery of Whakatāne District’s water services has now closed, and Whakatāne District Council is thanking everyone who took the time to have their say.
Following a detailed assessment of potential options, Council had indicated a preference to work with other willing councils to establish a Multi-Council Controlled Organisation. This model would retain local ownership and governance while offering the benefits of scale, shared expertise, and cost-efficiency. The alternative option considered was to continue delivering water services through a standalone business unit within Council.
The Local Water Done Well public consultation ran throughout April and early May, giving residents the opportunity to learn about proposed changes to the delivery of drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater.
Mayor Dr Victor Luca says community feedback will now play a critical role in shaping the Council’s Water Services Delivery Plan, which all councils are required to prepare by 3 September 2025.
“We know water is a taonga – a treasured resource that underpins our health, wellbeing and environment,” says Mayor Luca. “We’re grateful to the eighty people who took the time to share their views. Your input will help shape the direction of water service delivery across our district.”
The Council is now moving into the next stage of the process, which includes hearings, deliberations, and adoption of the final plan.
Key dates:
• 5 June – Hearings: Submitters who asked to speak will present their views directly to Council.
• 26 June – Deliberations: Council will consider all feedback and confirm its indicative direction.
• 14 August – Final adoption of the Water Services Delivery Plan.
• 3 September – Submission of the WSDP to the Department of Internal Affairs.
Updates and key decisions will be shared via the Council’s website and social media channels as they become available. The community is encouraged to stay connected as this important mahi continues.
For more information, visit: www.whakatane.govt.nz/local-water-done-well
ENDS