Last week, Waikato Waters marked a significant milestone as it prepares to begin operations in neighbouring councils. From 1 July 2026, our neighbours in South Waikato, Waipā, and Waitomo district councils will transition to Waikato Waters. Matamata-Piako joins on 1 October 2026. Hauraki and Ōtorohanga will transition to Waikato Waters on 1 July 2027.
For Hauraki residents and businesses, nothing changes right now. We will continue to pay for water services through our council rates, and contact us if there's an issue like a leak or a burst pipe. That remains the case until 1 July 2027.
Why we're doing this
Our six councils have chosen to work together on water services because we face the same challenges. Our infrastructure is ageing, costs are rising, and our communities are growing. By working together, we have the resources and expertise to deliver better water services than any one council could alone.
As Mayor Toby Adams said at the event, "By working collectively, we can provide more cost-effective, resilient and future-focused water services that support growth, protect our waterways and deliver better outcomes for the people we serve."
The bigger picture
Waikato Waters will ultimately manage more than $1.4 billion in assets and deliver a long-term investment programme exceeding $3 billion across the region.
The organisation is committed to building meaningful relationships with iwi and hapū across the Waikato, recognising Te Tiriti partnerships and ensuring that water management decisions reflect the aspirations of tangata whenua.
What comes next
Over the coming months, Waikato Waters will focus on understanding how treatment plants, networks and assets are performing across the councils that have transitioned. This understanding will guide how they prioritise maintenance, renewals and investment.
For Hauraki, our transition happens on 1 July 2027. We'll be sharing more information as we get closer to that date.
