Tauranga and Western Bay tick off key water decisions

Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council have closed out 2025 by locking in key steps for a potential joint water services organisation.

In August, both Councils agreed to explore a shared approach under the Government’s Local Water Done Well framework and have since been working proactively to ensure continuity and future readiness.

A final decision on the future of water services for our sub-region is expected in early-April 2026, subject to positive due diligence findings.

What’s been achieved so far?

• Joint Working Group established – representatives from Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Tauranga City Council and Tangata Whenua have agreed their terms of reference, with a key focus on working collaboratively and in good faith. The Councils will make every effort to understand each other's needs and objectives for the joint operating model, ensuring that the Treaty of Waitangi and community values are at the heart of discussions.

• Recruitment of an Establishment Chief Executive approved – this process will start early in 2026, with the intention of finalising an appointment in early-April, assuming that the councils agree to a joint water organisation at that time.

• Regional technology partnership signed – A strategic agreement with IAWAI (the new water entity for Hamilton City Council and Waikato District Council) has formalised a united approach to technology, including shared systems. This partnership will deliver better outcomes for communities through improved efficiency, lower costs and shared expertise.

Western Bay Mayor and Chair of the Western Bay Elected Member Working Group, James Denyer, says these milestones show real progress.

“We’re working hard to get the foundations for a collaborative relationship in place. While there are many governance decisions still ahead, both Councils agree that certain actions needed to be taken now. These actions provide a strong base to work from, ensuring that essential technology systems and leadership are in place, regardless of the outcome.”

Regional technology partnership

Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and IAWAI have approved a strategic partnership to deliver shared technology for water services.

Benefits of this partnership include significant cost savings through joint investment and economies of scale, reduced operational risk and streamlined processes.

The partnership highlights the types of benefits the new Local Water Done Well legislation enables by encouraging water organisations to work together.

Tauranga City Councillor for Tauriko Ward and Tauranga City’s Elected Member Working Group Chair, Marten Rozeboom, says collaboration is key to delivering sustainable water solutions for future generations.

“By working together across organisations and with tangata whenua, we aim to build systems that are efficient, resilient and offer communities better value for money.”