Local Waters

On 1 November 2024 Horowhenua District Council brought operating and maintaining drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services back in-house.

The move marked the end of the Horowhenua Alliance agreement, under which utilities provider Downer had worked with Council to manage the services since 2017.

All regular maintenance, repairs and renewals on the three water networks, as well as managing water supplies, water treatment and wastewater treatment plants, are now being done by Council.

Council forecasts bringing the work back in-house will save up to $1 million through greater efficiencies in the first year. 

More than 20 Downer staff who were working for the Alliance moved over to Council to continue their work. Some specialist maintenance equipment was already owned by Council and some was leased. Council bought or leased new equipment including vehicles, a digger and tools to ensure high-quality work to maintain the three waters services continues.

As well as saving money, the move will help Council to prepare for significant expected growth in Horowhenua.

It also puts Council in a better strategic position to meet the requirements of the coalition Government’s Local Waters Done Well program, including developing a comprehensive water service delivery plan by September 2025.

If I have a problem who do I call?

Council’s service centre is still your first port of call – email enquiries@horowhenua.govt.nz or phone 06 366 0999.