Big changes are flowing our way.
Hamilton City and Waikato District Councils have become the first in New Zealand to receive formal approval for a joint Water Services Delivery Plan, laying the foundation for major investment in our region’s essential water infrastructure.
The green light came from Paul James, Secretary for Local Government, and clears the path for a $3.6 billion investment over the next 10 years across both council areas.
This long-term plan will service around 280,000 people through 91,000 connections, including growing communities like Tamahere, and will be managed by a new jointly owned entity: IAWAI – Flowing Waters, officially formed this month.
The company will take over full operations by July 2026, and strategic projects have already begun transferring across. From 30 June 2026, all water services and around 270 council staff will shift to IAWAI to support delivery at scale.
Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate says the plan reflects the reality of rapid growth:
“We’re making a massive investment in core water infrastructure. Sixty-seven percent of that spend is growth-driven, essential to supporting new housing, businesses, and ensuring safe drinking water.”
Waikato District Mayor Jacqui Church noted the plan anticipates a 22% increase in demand for water services over the next decade:
“This joint approach means we can deliver more critical projects, faster and more cost-effectively. It’s about planning ahead and getting it done right.”
The IAWAI board, announced in June, includes:
Kevin Lavery (Executive Chair and former Wellington City Council CEO)
Tim Manukau (Tainui Waka)
Dave Chambers (former Watercare CEO)
Lavery will manage operations until a chief executive is appointed later this year.
Under government direction, all councils are required to submit similar Water Services Delivery Plans by early September, showing how they’ll meet environmental and public health regulations while maintaining financially sustainable operations. Hamilton and Waikato’s plan, submitted in early July, is now the first in the country to be approved.
You can view the full Water Services Delivery Plan on the Waikato District Council website
Image Ai Generated Depicting IAWAI truck and workers
