Chatham Islands Council adopts new water services delivery plan

The Chatham Islands Council has officially adopted a new Water Services Delivery Plan (WSDP), marking a significant step forward in securing safe, sustainable, and affordable water services for the Islands.

At a special meeting held on 27 August 2025, the Council approved a delivery model that will see water services managed through an in-house Stand-Alone Business Unit (SABU), supported by a delivery a suitably capable, third-party partner. The Council has been in constructive discussions with Auckland Council and its water services provider, Watercare, regarding the potential for these parties to operate as our third-party partner. A final decision is yet to be made.

Chief Executive Paul Eagle said the decision reflects the Council’s commitment to meeting national standards while addressing the Islands’ unique challenges.

“We’ve developed a plan that is tailored to our community’s needs and realities,” Mr Eagle said. “This model allows us to retain local control while accessing the expertise needed to deliver high-quality water services.”

The WSDP outlines a 10-year investment programme totalling $18.6 million in capital expenditure and $11 million in operational costs, focused on upgrading infrastructure in Waitangi and maintaining the Kaingaroa supply. The plan also includes a rural supply financial model designed to minimise costs to ratepayers while ensuring compliance with drinking water standards.

Key features of the plan include:

• Maintaining the Kaingaroa water network, with future options to be reassessed based on asset condition and funding.
• Deferring the extension of water services to Te One, with future consideration subject to funding and development needs.
• Partnering with a well-established and experienced third-party provider who will support council with strategic direction and technical expertise.
• Submitting the certified WSDP to the Department of Internal Affairs by 3 September 2025, as required under the Local Government (Water Services Preliminary Arrangements) Act 2024.

Community consultation showed strong support for the Council’s approach, with over 80 per cent of survey respondents backing the need for local contributions to unlock government funding. Feedback from Kaingaroa residents highlighted concerns about transitioning to tank-based systems, prompting the Council to retain the current network for now.

Mr Eagle acknowledged the importance of community input in shaping the plan.

“We’ve heard the concerns, especially from Kaingaroa, and we’ve responded by committing to maintain their current supply for the next decade,” he said. “This plan is about balancing affordability, compliance, and community wellbeing.”

Implementation milestones include finalising a delivery partner agreement by October 2025 and establishing new accounting systems by July 2026.

“We’re now focused on delivering this plan and securing the necessary funding to make it a reality,” Mr Eagle added. “It’s a major step forward for the Chatham Islands.”