At its meeting held Thursday, 14th August 2025, Rangitīkei District Council unanimously adopted the first product of its Local Water Done Well partnership with Horowhenua District Council and Palmerston North City Council.

The adopted Water Services Delivery Plan (WSDP) sets out how water services in Rangitīkei, Horowhenua, and Palmerston North will be delivered in the future. It also outlines the pathway the three councils propose taking to establish a joint Water-Services Council Controlled Organisation that meets regulatory standards and is financially sustainable.

“Adopting this plan is an important milestone in our Local Water Done Well journey.’ says Rangitīkei District Council Chief Executive, Carol Gordon.

“While retaining local voice and accountability will remain key, I have no doubt that the strong relationships we have built together with Horowhenua and Palmerston North will ensure effective collaboration through the next phases of this work.

“My thanks go to the staff from all three council’s, but especially our Rangitīkei District Council Local Water Done Well team who have worked incredibly hard to ensure the plan put before council today reflected the needs and priorities of Rangitīkei residents,” says Carol.

As the final council to adopt, the WSDP will now be submitted to the Department of Internal Affairs for approval.

All three councils have also passed a resolution that gives Ruapehu District Council and Whanganui District Council the opportunity to join the Joint Water Services Organisation, citing working together as vital to delivering efficient and affordable water services now and in the future.

It is estimated the joint water-services organisation will be fully operational by 1 July 2027. Until then, Rangitīkei District Council will continue to deliver water services to residents.

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