Waikato District Council Mayor, Aksel Bech, says the release of IAWAI’s draft Water Services Strategy shows real progress in addressing the high rate rises faced by communities in recent years.

“The draft Strategy sets out a longterm, sustainable approach to delivering drinking water and wastewater services for customers connected to water services across the Waikato District,” Mayor Aksel said.

“The release of this Strategy demonstrates that we are starting to get on top of the significant cost pressures that were forecast before IAWAI was established.”

For Waikato District customers, the proposed increase in fixed charges has reduced from $364 to $142 per year. When combined with volumetric charges (based on average water use), this brings the previously forecast increase in charges down to $174*.

“While no one welcomes increases, this outcome is significantly better than what ratepayers would have faced without the decision to form a council owned water organisation,” Mayor Aksel said.

“Working together through IAWAI is helping to protect affordability while still allowing us to invest in the essential water services our communities rely on.”

“This is a win for Waikato households. It reduces pressure on family budgets while ensuring we meet new regulatory requirements and support future growth.”

“IAWAI brings together the resources and expertise needed to deliver water services more efficiently, meet growing demand, and ensure that growth pays for growth, rather than placing an unfair burden on existing ratepayers,” Mayor Aksel said.

*Average household water use is 210m³ per annum.

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