Western Bay of Plenty District Council has selected a preferred model for delivering water services with the next steps asking for community feedback.
Council’s decision is part of the Government’s Local Water Done Well framework, which requires councils to implement financially sustainable models for managing drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater services.
The three options that’ll go out for community feedback from 24 March to 24 April 2025 are:
- Retaining the current model – Council continues to manage water services independently.
- Single Council Water Services CCO – A new, separate Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) is created to manage water services.
- Joint Council Water Services CCO (preferred option) – A shared entity with potential partners such as Tauranga City Council and/or other councils, ensuring financial and operational sustainability while maintaining local control.
Western Bay Mayor James Denyer says this is an important decision with far-reaching implications.
“We want our community to be aware of this kaupapa/process and share their thoughts with us. This is about securing a financially sustainable future for our water services while keeping ownership and decision-making local,” says Mayor James.
“Whatever the future model looks like, it’s important that our community is well-informed and understands the drivers behind the decisions that Council is obliged to make.”
Like all councils across the country, Western Bay must submit a Water Services Delivery Plan by 3 September 2025, outlining future arrangements and an implementation plan. The preferred model balances financial sustainability, regulatory requirements, and community needs.
“We’ve made significant investments in water infrastructure to provide high-quality services to our communities, but we need to ensure we can continue investing in essential infrastructure while meeting new water quality and financial sustainability thresholds set by Government,” explains Mayor James.
“To do that, we must explore the new options for delivering water services as proposed by the Government, which include whether we work in partnership with others.”
Regardless of the outcome, Council remains committed to maintaining local influence, ensuring services are resilient and affordable.
“We understand this is a complex issue, and we’re committed to providing clear, accessible information so our community can make informed submissions. This is a kōrero that will shape the future of water services, and we look forward to connecting with our community later this month,” says Mayor James.
Watch the livestream video of Council (below) to hear the discussion around the decision.
Next steps
18 March: Council to adopt its Local Water Done Water consultation material that will form the basis of the community consultation.
24 March – 24 April: Public consultation will run with opportunities for the community to provide feedback online and at engagement events across the District.
