21 May 2025 – Next week in Nelson, water network operators and civil contractors from across New Zealand will compete in a live, high-pressure skills showdown. The winner of the 2025 National Live Tapping Competition will be crowned on 29 May at the annual Water Industry Operations Group (WIOG) conference.

In this high-stakes competition, teams of two race against the clock to connect a household-sized water service to a live water main – without shutting off the supply. Known as water main tapping, this process allows connections to be made under pressure, avoiding costly shutdowns and ensuring customers continue to receive water without interruption. It’s a hands-on challenge that demands skill, speed and teamwork, reflecting the real-world pressures water network operators face every day to keep communities supplied.

Once the connection is complete, judges inspect every detail for leaks, faults and technical accuracy. The smallest mistake can cost teams valuable seconds, while major errors could mean disqualification. The fastest team – after any penalties are applied – will claim the national title and bragging rights for the next 12 months.

Sponsored by Hynds Water, the competition is a showcase of the expertise that New Zealand’s water operational teams bring to the job every day, ensuring essential water services reach their communities reliably and efficiently.

“The National Live Tapping Competition is a testament to the proficiency and commitment of our water network operations teams,” said Joshua McIndoe, Chair of WIOG. “These are the people who work behind the scenes, around the clock, to deliver these vital services, often under demanding conditions.”

Mr McIndoe also acknowledged the importance of industry support. “Competitions like this wouldn’t be possible without the backing of knowledgeable and trusted partners like Hynds Water. Their support helps us champion the professionalism of our sector and foster pride in our industry.”

“We’re proud to support the National Live Tapping Competition and the skilled teams who take part,” said Brent Merritt, Business Development Manager, Hynds Water. “There’s no room for error in a live pipe connection. This competition showcases the incredible skill and dedication of the professionals who keep our water networks flowing.”

Notes:

• 2025 National Live Tapping Competition:
• The competition will take place from 12-1.15pm on Thursday, 29 May.
• The winner of the 2025 National Live Tapping Competition title will be announced on the evening of Thursday, 29 May at the WIOG Conference and Awards dinner at approx. 7.30pm.

Previous winners of the National Live Tapping Competition are:

• 2024 Waipa District Council
• 2023 Waimakariri District Council
• 2022 Conference and competition cancelled due to COVID
• 2021 Timaru District Council & Waimate District Council
• 2020 Conference and competition cancelled due to COVID
• 2019 Manawatu District Council

About WIOG

The Water Industry Operations Group of New Zealand (WIOG) is a national not-for-profit incorporation formed in 2006 by a group of dedicated water and wastewater operations professionals. Its membership covers professionals in water and wastewater treatment, reticulation and construction, asset management, engineering, supply owners and industry suppliers. The goals and objectives of the Group are simple: to provide its members with the opportunities to enhance their knowledge, experience and to provide them with a voice. The Group also promotes the water industry ‘source to discharge’ as a whole in order to raise public awareness.

About Hynds Water

A division of Hynds Pipe Systems, Hynds Water brings together the water expertise from across the Hynds Group, creating a focused team of professionals dedicated to providing our water customers with the highest level of service and technical expertise, with easy access to world-leading water product brands and agencies.

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