Far North community backs local control for future water services

Far North District Council has completed consultation on future water service delivery, with most of the feedback backing a locally managed approach.

Of the 116 submissions received during the consultation period from 4 April to 6 May 2025, 68 per cent supported keeping water services in-house. Many submitters highlighted the importance of retaining local control and accountability, especially when it comes to essential services like drinking water, wastewater and stormwater.

The consultation was part of the Government’s new Local Water Done Well policy, which replaces the former Three Waters reform. Councils are now expected to show how they will deliver financially sustainable water services that meet all regulatory standards and support growth in their districts.

Far North District Council sought feedback on two possible delivery models:

Te pēke — a strengthened in-house model where services remain fully council-managed

Te kete — a shared three-council water services organisation with Kaipara and Whangārei district councils.

Those in favour of Te kete pointed to potential cost savings and efficiencies, while most supported Te pēke for its ability to keep decision making closer to home.

Recognising shared challenges across the region, the Far North, Kaipara and Whangārei District Councils have established the Northland Water Services Elected Member Working Group, chaired by Whangārei Mayor Vince Cocurullo with three elected members from each council. The Far North is represented on the Working Group by Kahika Moko Tepania, Cr Ann Court and Cr John Vujcich and is supported by staff, Department of Internal Affairs representatives, and an independent technical advisor.

This group met for the first time on the 26 May 2025. Its purpose is to explore collaborative solutions, such as shared services or a regional CCO, and make recommendations to each council.

Far North District Council hopes to make a formal decision on its preferred water services delivery model at the council meeting on 3 July 2025.

Stay up to date at: Our Water, Our Future – Project Page