In-house water services model approved for Manawatū District

Tuesday, 18 November 2025

Celebrating approval of the district’s water plan are Manawatū District Council infrastructure general manager Hamish Waugh, environmental officer Anastasia Boniface, mayor Michael Ford, infrastructure planning and compliance manager Wendy Thompson, and utilities manager Wiremu Greening at the newest water treatment plant on Roots St West.

A standalone model for delivering drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services put forward by the Manawatū District Council has been approved by the Department of Internal Affairs.

The council had backed itself to adopt an in-house three waters plan that adhered to the Government’s Local Water Done Well framework instead of partnering with neighbouring districts.

Mayor Michael Ford said the decision represented a a significant endorsement of the council’s approach, particularly as many civic authorities across the country had been expected to pursue multi-council delivery models.

“This is a massive achievement for our community and our council team,” he said. “We put forward a model that was different from the norm, because it was the right choice for Manawatū district.

“The Department’s approval gives us a clear vote of confidence that our financial modelling, governance structure, and long-term planning are robust and credible.”

He said it was a landmark moment for the district.

More than 500 submissions had been made during MDC’s consultation on the plan earlier this year, with an overwhelming majority supporting a standalone model.

Ford said this strong public mandate formed a core part of the council’s proposal to Internal Affairs.

“Our community told us loud and clear they value retaining local control over how water services are delivered. DIA’s approval recognises that our local model is not only viable but is strong, resilient, and financially responsible.”

Internal Affairs had the authority to reject any proposed delivery plan that did not demonstrate affordability, competency, risk management or compliance with New Zealand’s strengthened water quality and infrastructure regulations.

With approval now received, the council would move forward with implementing the in-house business unit ahead of the national transition to the Local Water Done Well framework.