Metro Water hires inaugural chief executive for Wellington

Thursday, 27 November 2025

Michael Brewster, former chief executive of Tasmania’s statewide water utility, has been appointed inaugural head of Wellington’s new water entity, Tiaki Wai Metro Water.

Brewster led TasWater from its formation in 2013 until 2022, overseeing the amalgamation of three regional water businesses and a central provider into one organisation.

“From my experience at TasWater, I know how vital reliable, safe, and high-quality water, stormwater, and wastewater services are for communities and industry,” Brewster said in a statement on Thursday afternoon.

“I look forward to combining my experience in water reform with local knowledge for the benefit of Tiaki Wai’s customers, owners, partners, and employees.”

Currently a Perth-based private consultant, Brewster is no stranger to shakeups of New Zealand water infrastructure and policies - he was involved in the now-scrapped Three Waters programme to establish a new water entity that covers the entire South Island except Nelson, Marlborough and Tasman.

He was also the former chief executive of the Tasmanian Electricity Reform Business Transition Group to reshape electricity businesses statewide.

Metro Water board chairperson Will Peet said Brewster was the right man for the job, especially for his credentials in leading a new organisation to deliver improved services.

“He has a strong understanding of the New Zealand water services environment,” said Peet. “It will take time to make all the improvements we know our communities want.

“We will have to balance the need for investment with affordability for our communities. We also have to build new systems that do not currently exist in Wellington Water to manage customer interactions, finances, and assets.”

Brewster will relocate to Wellington before starting his new job next February.