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The Government is reforming the way three waters are managed.
- July 20, 2022
Three waters explained
UPDATE
On 27 November 2023, the National-led coalition government announced that it would repeal the Three Waters reforms. The story below is from July 2022.
Government sources estimate that between $120 and $185 billion dollars of investment in three waters (drinking water, waste water and storm water) infrastructure will be needed over the next 30 years to improve the quality of our drinking water and wastewater and stormwater management, across New Zealand.1
Councils generally support the need for New Zealand to reform the way it manages the three waters.2
Why do we need reform
Investment in infrastructure is costly and difficult for Councils, which means some of New Zealand’s drinking water is not safe at times, and untreated wastewater has spilled into our environment.
- In 2016 Havelock North’s drinking water was affected by major campylobacter contamination. As a result, an estimated 5,500 residents became ill, and four people died. The economic cost of the outbreak is estimated at $21 million.1
- In 2020/2021, 40,000 Kiwis had to boil their tap water, (27 permanent, 56 temporary water notices).1
- In 2020, New Zealand’s wastewater systems overflowed or blocked more than 3,000 times.2
- Every year, 34,000 New Zealanders get sick from water that does not meet NZ standards.3
- In 2019 almost a quarter of wastewater treatment plants were operating on expired consents.1
- And every year, 35,000 New Zealanders get sick from water that doesn’t meet international standards for clean drinking water2.
Water non-compliance per % of population 2020/21
Investing in infrastructure
KDC’s Commissioners started partially funding depreciation. Over the last year KDC has fully funded depreciation for waters infrastructure, except for the Mangawhai wastewater scheme, which will be fully funded by 2025.4
The Government study found most councils are not investing enough in infrastructure. They are not depreciating assets properly, which means they will not be able to afford to replace pipes and other infrastructure as they age. Many councils do not have good information about the state and performance of their three waters networks.1
Underground pipes have a life expectancy of around 60 - 80 years.
Several Kaipara settlements were established in the 1950s and 1960s and we are monitoring the state of the three water assets.
New Zealand settlements that boomed in the 1950s and 1960s have pipes that are nearing the end of life. Those councils must replace pipes as they age or repair them if they fail, which disrupts services and costs much more.
The Government's projected water costs
Currently, Kaipara’s average household three water costs are $2,360 per annum.
Without reform the annual household cost of three waters for our community is expected to reach $8,690 by 2051. With reform, the average household water cost is expected to be $800 by 205110.
Small districts, like Kaipara will benefit if the cost of infrastructure is spread over a greater number of people.
Over the next 30 years New Zealand will need to spend $120 - $185 billion to maintain and upgrade infrastructure.
Without reform the average household rate for all New Zealand is expected to be $1,900 - $9,000 per year by 2051.
With reform, the average household rate for all New Zealand is expected to be $800 - $1,640 by 2051.1
This is possible through a combination of factors, including:
- Using economies of scale in procurement and other specialist functions
- greater capacity to invest
- appointing highly skilled board members and staff
- spreading the cost of investment over a greater number of people.
What reform will achieve
Reforming our water management will enable us to:
- Meet health, environmental and cultural needs
- Adapt to climate change and build resilience to natural hazards
- Respond to growth, housing and urban development
- Maintain and upgrade ageing infrastructure
- Operate within a constrained budget and workforce2.
New regulations and monitoring
Currently, Kaipara’s drinking water supply meets the new standards.
A new entity, called Taumata Arowai, has been established to regulate and monitor the quality of drinking water. Taumata Arowai has consulted on new, more stringent, Standards and Rules that are for monitoring and quality assurance. These came into effect on 14 November and Taumata Arowai requires suppliers to meet those standards. At present many Councils and private suppliers do not meet those standards. With Regional Councils, Taumata Arowai will also monitor compliance with environmental regulations at a national level to improve performance of wastewater and stormwater networks.
An economic regulator will also be introduced, which will ensure it is no longer possible to under-invest, or to charge consumers too much or to deliver poor quality service.
Overview of roles and responsibilities in the Three Waters System
Proposed changes to water service delivery
Four new water entities will be established to deliver water services. Kaipara will become part of Entity A, which includes Northland and Auckland.
Each entity contains one major population area, to achieve economies of scale and reduce the cost of water management for the smaller areas. Their scale would create operational efficiencies, and they will have more purchasing power than smaller individual councils. They will be able to complete multiple projects at the same time.
Ownership
Kaipara will have one of 40 shares in Entity A11.
Councils within the area would collectively own the water assets and service on behalf of the communities. Councils will have shares in the new entity, at the rate of one share per 50,000 people. Each council will have at least one share.
Shares cannot be sold or transferred, which protects the assets from being privatised1.
Kaipara has approximately $50 million of internal debt associated with our three waters assets.
The three water assets and the debt associated with them will be transferred to the new entity. Entities will be able to set rates for water services and borrow against the assets to fund development.
The government has said they intend to fund debt repayments, so councils won’t be left carrying the cost of the debt. They are still determining how that may work.
Governance
Entities would be governed by independent, competency-based boards. Boards will be appointed by a Regional Representative Group, based on their skills, knowledge, and experience.
Councils and Mana whenua will form part of the Regional Representative Group that will appoint members of the Water Service Entity Board, based on their skills. The number of votes the Council gets to vote for the Board is proportional to their shares.
Local and community voices across three waters system for each entity
Regional Representative Groups will provide regional and local level direction and oversight, including joint monitoring of the water services entities. They may establish Regional Advisory Panels to provide them with advice about how to perform or exercise their duties, functions and powers.8
Operations
Like most councils at present, Kaipara has difficulty attracting and retaining staff. As a small council we have to contract in specialist services
The water services entity will be responsible for delivering services. Increasing the size and scale of water service providers would enable the industry to build a larger workforce that includes specialists, such as microbiologists or data specialists.
We will still need local people on the ground to do local work. Remote working means they will be able to work on other projects too.
Better off funding package
Kaipara has currently been allocated a total of $16.14 million to use on projects that benefit the district. We can apply for $4.14 million now. We can apply for a further $12 million in 2024, after the central government elections.6
The Council is considering where that money should be invested.
Some projects suggested for Kaipara, such as improving the unsealed roading network, do not meet the funding criteria.
The Government has also established a ‘Better off Funding Package’, to recognise how much the change will affect Councils and their communities and their ability to raise money in the future. This is available to all councils, whether or not they support the three waters reform. There are no restrictions attached to it that would prevent councils from discussing reforms in an open forum.
Funding may be allocated to one of the following purposes (further conditions apply):
- To support communities to transition to a sustainable and low-emissions economy
- Deliver infrastructure or services that enable housing development and growth
- Deliver infrastructure or services that support local place-making and improvements in community well-being6.
The Government has just announced a further funding package of $350,000 for each council to help them transition to the new three waters system9.
Questions and answers
How well will Kaipara interests be represented if we are part of a large group?
Kaipara will have greater proportionate representation that some other communities. (Our population equates to approximately half a share but we will get the minimum of one share).
Like any organisation, Entity A will need to prioritise their work, according to need. The new water quality, environmental and investment regulations will guide where that investment needs to be, regardless of the size of the district. If Kaipara water quality drops, Entity A will be required to address that. If our pipes exceed their useful life they will have to be replaced.
Like Councils, Entity A is required to engage with communities on its asset management plans, funding and pricing plans and infrastructure strategies. It will also establish a consumer forum to help understand community needs, and service requirements.
If Kaipara accepts the $16.14 million Better Off Funding package are we committing to the three waters reforms?
The Better Off Funding package does not restrict what the Council can say about the Three Water Reform. The offer does come with criteria as to where it can be spent.
If Kaipara turned down the funding we would miss out on an opportunity to invest in our communities.
Can the new Water Entities be privatised?
Safeguards against future privatisation will be written into legislation to maintain ongoing ownership of the new entities by local authorities elected by communities. Beyond that, the Government will make communities the ultimate guardians of public ownership through a public referendum with any future proposal for privatisation requiring 75 per cent of votes in favour to carry it12.
Will jobs move away from Kaipara to Auckland?
There will be a greater number of jobs available across a broad range of organisational disciplines. The Government has committed to retain all existing ‘three waters’ staff in current locations so people need only move if they want to. Organisations have good options for working remotely now so people do not need to relocate.
Reform will provide better career paths for people and greater opportunities to specialise.
How will reforms affect Local Government?
Three waters makes up a large part of the business of Local Government. The Government is also reviewing the role of Local Government and has indicated it may play a larger role in community wellbeing. The Government will release more information in a paper due in October 2022.7
Is the Government taking assets I have paid for?
No. The infrastructure you have paid for will remain as a public asset, as it is now with the Council. Councils will collectively own the infrastructure through their shares in Entity A.
The assets are protected from moving into private ownership.
How will the new Governance structure affect the decision-making process?
Currently water infrastructure strategy decisions are made by Councils that are democratically elected every three years. This model relies on elected community representatives having the skills required for governing a complex set of assets and engineering systems.5
The proposal is for strategic decision-making to move to an independent, skills-based, professional Board that is appointed by Councils. They will be required to invest in the network.1
In both instances, the governing bodies are required to consult with communities over their strategies and plans.
How will farm drainage be managed?
We do not yet know what aspects of stormwater or land/farm drainage will transfer to the new Entity. A Government appointed working group continues to finalise these arrangements.
Have your say
The Select Committee is seeking feedback on the Water Services Entities Bill. We encourage you to find out more and have your say on the proposed Bill before 22 July. Please refer to the following Government information on the Water Services Entities Bill and how to make a submission.
- Detailed information pack, provides high level information about the Three Waters Reform Package.
- Overview, factsheet with an overview of the Water Services Entities Bill
- Governance and accountability, factsheet
- Public ownership and consumer engagement, factsheet
- Transitional arrangements, factsheet
Find out how to make a submission
The Council has supported the Communities 4 Local Democracy, which is providing suggestions to people wanting to make a submission. You can find out more on communities4localdemocracy.co.nz
Disclaimer
We have attempted to simplify the complex information provided by Central Government. We have provided this information in good faith, believing it to be a reasonable summary of the Government’s proposal. However, we will not be held responsible for the accuracy of the information and recommend you refer to Government sources for further detail. If you are referring to Government information we recommend you check that it is current, as information is changing quickly.
References
- Te Tari Taiwhenua, Internal Affairs. (June 2022). Three-waters-reform-case-for-change-and-summary-of-proposals-15-June-2022.pdf (dia.govt.nz)
- Te Kāhui Kaunihera ō Aotearoa, Local Government NZ. (2022). Three Waters | Ko Tātou LGNZ
- Schools, hospital among providers of drinking water that's not demonstrably safe | Stuff.co.nz (2020)
- Kaipara District Council. Long Term Plan Mahere Wā Roa. 2021-2031
- Martin Jenkins (6 December, 2017). The Interface between Asset Management and Council Governance Practices.
- Te Tari Taiwhenua, Internal Affairs. Three Waters Better Off Support Package; Guide to the better off funding package for local authorities.
- Review into the Future for Local Government.
- Te Tari Taiwhenua, Internal Affairs. Water Services Entities Bill – governence accountability and consumer engagement.
- https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/471226/more-three-waters-funding-aims-to-help-councils-with-handover
- Te Tari Taiwhenua, Internal Affairs. https://www.dia.govt.nz/diawebsite.nsf/Files/Three-waters-reform-programme-2022/$file/Key-Council-figures-April-2022.pdf
- Te Tari Taiwhenua, Internal Affairs. https://www.dia.govt.nz/diawebsite.nsf/Files/Three-waters-reform-programme-2022/$file/Council-shareholding-in-Water-Service-Entities-April-2022.pdf
- Te Tari Taiwhenua, Internal Affairs. https://www.dia.govt.nz/three-waters-reform-programme-frequently-asked-questions
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Two count cameras have been installed in Dargaville to track the number of people walking, cycling and scooting.
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Read more- July 15, 2024
A set of new toilets for Baylys Beach goers were officially blessed and opened to the public late last week.
Read moreCouncils join forces to tick off last road recovery repairs
- July 03, 2024
Kaipara District Council and Whangarei District Council are developing a joint panel of contractors to complete the remaining emergency recovery repairs, helping to save money and time for both councils.
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- June 27, 2024
From 1 July Molesworth Drive southbound traffic will be diverted around Moir Point Road/Seabreeze Road for approximately three weeks.
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Close to 100 people came together at the southern tip of the Pouto Peninsula to celebrate the opening of a new wharf in Kaipara.
Read moreWaters infrastructure projects better off thanks to redirected funding
- May 31, 2024
More than $3.2million of external funding will be redirected into Kaipara District’s waters infrastructure budget after Council deciding to redirect existing uncommitted Better Off and Transition Support funding.
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New toilets are on the way for Baylys Beach, to provide safe and accessible facilities for the community and visitors.
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- May 09, 2024
Molesworth Drive has been a hive of activity, with crew working on the third phase of the shared path spread across different zones.
Read moreMountain Road repairs ticked off the list
- May 05, 2024
Kaipara District Council contractors Ventia have completed another significant road repair, this time in Maungaturoto.
Read moreLevel 3 water restrictions lifted for Dargaville and Baylys Beach
- April 23, 2024
Water restrictions have been lifted for properties on town supply in Dargaville and Baylys Beach.
Read more- March 20, 2024
Dargaville and Baylys Beach residents have responded to the call to preserve water under Level 3 water restrictions.
Read more- March 11, 2024
Up to $10,000 is up for grabs in round one of Kaipara’s Rural Travel Fund for 2024.
Read more- March 07, 2024
Work on Pouto wharf has been progressing well during weather and tidal windows, with the crew taking every opportunity to complete piling works, concreting, and install bearers. With most of the piles now in place, the crew are focused on completing the bracing and joists over the next fortnight.
Read more- February 23, 2024
Residents in Dargaville and Baylys Beach are urged to reduce water use after use has risen slightly since Level 3 water restrictions came into force on 12 February.
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Two bridges in Tangiteroria will undergo essential works this year to improve safety and restore full vehicle access, resulting in temporary closures on Omana Road and Pukehuia Road.
Read more- February 12, 2024
Water restrictions have been introduced for Dargaville and surrounds, with residents across the entire Kaipara district being urged to use the precious resource wisely.
Read moreWork on the third phase of the Mangawhai shared path to kick off
- February 02, 2024
Works on the next phase of the Mangawhai shared path kick off 7 February.
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Our district is buzzing with summer. Everywhere I go in Kaipara our communities and our many visitors can be seen making the most of these sunshine hours.
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Tinopai wharf is currently closed due to significant deterioration and structural damage.
Read more- December 21, 2023
An update on the Kaipara Cycle Network Connections project from Kaipara District Council Chief Executive, Jason Marris.
Read moreRuawai Adaptive Pathway Programme paused for consultation in 2024
- December 01, 2023
A motion moved by Kaipara District Council Mayor Jepson has paused the Ruawai Adaptive Pathways programme until the public has had their say through the next Long Term Plan consultation.
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- November 22, 2023
We have now finalised the design for Wood Street. A huge thanks to everyone who has been involved over the years and through the design trials to get to this permanent design.
Read moreWeather causes further delays to Pouto wharf completion
- November 20, 2023
Another round of weather events, including ex-Cyclone Lola, has affected works on Poutō wharf and extended the completion date out to the end of the summer.
Read moreBetter off Funding goes towards community hubs
- November 08, 2023
Designs for two community hubs will proceed as originally planned after a motion agreed by Council to reallocate the funding did not receive iwi support.
Read moreExpansion of wastewater network capacity set to enter first stages
- October 27, 2023
Elected Members agreed to commence the first two stages of a multi-year project to increase the capacity of the Mangawhai Wastewater Scheme.
Read moreSuite of renewals and upgrades shores up water resilience
- October 24, 2023
A number of infrastructure renewals and upgrades completed in recent years have strengthened water security in Kaipara.
Read moreGovernment funding boosts flood resilience
- October 09, 2023
Kaipara is set to benefit from $2.6 million recently announced by the Government to boost resilience and reduce the risk of major flood damage.
Read more- September 29, 2023
Dargaville residents and visitors are one step closer to easier and safer active transport options after Kaipara District Council’s decision to progress the Kaipara Cycle Network Connections project.
Read moreFunding approval for Kaipara tourism facilities
- September 26, 2023
Upgrading the Taharoa Domain day visitor toilet facilities, improving drainage in Mangawhai Community Park, and completing the award-winning Baylys Beach boardwalk are all on the cards for Kaipara District Council’s (KDC) work programme thanks to a cash injection from the Tourism Infrastructure Fund (TIF).
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We received 320 submissions from the community on proposed connectivity improvements between residential Dargaville and the town centre.
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Read moreRemoving problem trees to build Northland's resilience and warm its people
- September 05, 2023
A new collaborative project has arisen from the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, which aims to build Northland’s resilience to future adverse weather events by tackling the problem of fallen and at-risk trees.
Read moreTe Ara o Te Whai - Mangawhai boardwalk opens to public
- August 31, 2023
Sunny weather and an incoming tide provided the perfect backdrop to open the Mangawhai boardwalk to a large gathering last week.
The boardwalk is the second phase of the Mangawhai shared path project, connecting the village to the heads, and making it safer and easier to travel by foot, bike, or scooter along busy Molesworth Drive.
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- August 08, 2023
An update from Kaipara District Council and Northland Regional Council.
Read more- July 19, 2023
Tell us what you think about proposed connectivity improvements for Dargaville.
Read moreSecond phase of Mangawhai shared path nears completion
- July 10, 2023
Progress has been tracking well on the second phase of the Mangawhai shared path, with the boardwalk section now stretching right across the water by the causeway.
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Read morePoutō wharf construction work temporarily suspended until September
- June 27, 2023
Contractors working on the finishing touches for Poutō wharf have had to down tools until conditions are more favourable to complete the remaining piling and wharf head.
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- April 12, 2023
Late last month a warm Kaipara sun shone on a group of farmers and growers keen to hear about a season of growing squash in Maunganui Bluff, north of Dargaville.
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Kaipara District Mayor Craig Jepson has established a Mayoral Relief Fund to help support those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.
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- February 20, 2023
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- February 15, 2023
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- February 14, 2023
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Read moreCar wreckage removed from Pouto Point
- January 25, 2023
Salt services, a professional dive team, spent most of a day early last week pulling an old car wreck out of the water. The car had been submerged some years ago and was resting where work was starting on the wharf head.
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- January 17, 2023
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- January 10, 2023
Improvements to the Poutō Point carpark area can progress in 2023 thanks to further funding from Kaipara District Council.
Read more- December 21, 2022
Look after your loo and Kaipara's wastewater network this summer by reminding your household members and visitors what not to flush.
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Summer is here and so are all our visitors. It’s the busiest time of the year for the Taharoa Domain, and we need you to help us look after this beautiful gem.
Read morePouto wharf takes shape
- December 09, 2022
The construction of Poutō wharf has really been trucking along recently, with another dozen piles driven in the ground last week.
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- December 05, 2022
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is encouraging people in Dargaville to get on their bikes with a Transport Choice programme grant of approximately $8,000,000 to be provided to Kaipara District Council, announced on 4 December 2022.
Read more- November 17, 2022
Sea, sand, and Aotearoa New Zealand’s rarest bird were all on hand for the opening of Kaipara’s newest loos.
Read more- November 07, 2022
If you live in Poutō or have gone for a drive down recently, you will have seen some of the wharf construction taking shape.
Read more- October 12, 2022
New toilets at Alamar Crescent are ready for the public to use in time for Mangawhai’s busy summer season.
Read more- September 29, 2022
Physical works for Poutō wharf have begun. Earlier in the month, Waikaretu marae led a blessing ahead of construction starting.
Read moreCouncil collaborates with Te Uri o Hau on boardwalk design
- September 16, 2022
The second phase of the Mangawhai shared path cranks up construction next month, and includes a collaboratively designed boardwalk running alongside the causeway.
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- September 15, 2022
Kaipara District Council has confirmed sunflowers and squash for the second growing season of the Kaipara Water demonstration sites.
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- September 08, 2022
An update on the Kaihu Valley Trail including fencing progress, funding and latest finds along the trail.
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- September 07, 2022
A Mangawhai Wastewater Treatment Plant Advisory Group (MAG) is helping to guide a future strategy for the growing town’s wastewater disposal.
Read more- September 02, 2022
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Read moreBetter off with funding for community hubs
- September 01, 2022
Two new community hubs move a step closer with Kaipara District Council opting to apply for the Three Waters Better Off Funding Package, provided by Central Government, to help fund them
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- August 31, 2022
A blessing event carried out with Te Uri o Hau iwi representatives earlier this week signalled the completion of the first phase of the Mangawhai shared path works.
Read morePouto wharf works get set to kick off
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Work to construct Poutō wharf is set to begin shortly.
Read moreCouncil improves system resilience
- August 23, 2022
The first part of a multi-phase project to manage Council’s water and wastewater asset network more efficiently and improve its resilience is complete.
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- August 08, 2022
Last week saw the first of the pre-cast concrete slabs for Mangawhai’s new wastewater balance tank carefully craned into place.
Read more- July 01, 2022
Kaipara District Council has been successful in its applications for the Tourism Infrastructure Fund.
Read more- July 01, 2022
Twenty-two community organisations have been awarded a share of $100,000.00 in the latest Kaipara District Council Community Grant.
Read more- June 27, 2022
Kaipara District Council’s operations and maintenance switches over to a new contractor next month.
Read more- June 22, 2022
Pop into Dargaville Museum to see their latest display on the development of the Kaihu Valley Trail.
Read morePlanting pohutukawa, nikau along the shared path
- June 08, 2022
With the courtesy crossings for phase one now complete, the Mangawhai shared path team and contractors got the spades and mulch out and ticked off the planting, getting the final shrubs and trees in the ground last week.
Read more- May 30, 2022
The project to install a new toilet at Lincoln Street Reserve is a step closer to completion with the new facilities delivered to site last week.
Read more- May 19, 2022
Work to improve the wastewater network in Kaiwaka is scheduled to begin on 23 May 2022.
Read moreBalance tank build begins
- May 11, 2022
A new balance tank for Mangawhai's wastewater treatment plant is one step closer to completion, with the first pre-cast concrete slabs poured for the tank structure.
Read moreNew toilet buildings for Mangawhai and Maungaturoto craned into place
- April 29, 2022
Projects to install new toilets in Mangawhai and Maungaturoto reached milestones recently, as the new facilities were delivered to their sites.
Read more- April 26, 2022
Complex problems for councils seldom come as neatly packaged as the “Better Off” funding which is part of the Three Waters Reforms.
Read moreAdditional funding for Pouto wharf confirmed
- April 14, 2022
Elected Members have unanimously approved paying the forecasted $265,000 project shortfall for Poutō wharf, funded from the district’s financial contributions reserves.
Read moreKaihu Valley Trail April update
- April 13, 2022
Check out the latest happenings on the Kaihu Valley Trail progress, including the discovery of some railway artefacts.
Read moreNew toilets improve Mangawhai Historic Village facilities
- March 30, 2022
On Monday 28 March, Mangawhai Community Park’s new toilets were formally opened with a blessing at the Historic Village.
Read more- March 30, 2022
Two new footbridges were opened at a double ribbon-cutting ceremony in the Kaipara township of Kaiwaka on Saturday 26 March.
Read more- March 18, 2022
We are aware some Maungaturoto residents have recently experienced events of low pressure or in some instances disrupted water supply to their properties.
Read moreHarvest begins across demonstration sites
- March 16, 2022
Harvesting is underway across the Kaipara Water demonstration sites.
Read more- March 11, 2022
Ongoing COVID-19 restrictions and other delays to the programme have inevitably slowed the Poutō wharf project, but the team have made progress and are now working through the tail end of the developed design.
Read moreIndicative general rates rise in line with Long Term Plan
- March 04, 2022
At a recent briefing Council staff presented the preliminary financial statements for the upcoming Annual Plan (2022-2023).
Read moreWater storage plan to ease Dargaville water restrictions
- March 02, 2022
The Waiatua Dam (on Opanake Road) may be the solution to end the Dargaville and Baylys Beach water shortages, according to a preliminary investigation, commissioned by Kaipara District Council.
Read moreMolesworth Drive shared path works
- February 16, 2022
Starting today through to Wednesday 23 February a short section of Molesworth Drive from the ITM down to Nautical Heights will go down to one lane, with flow managed using traffic lights.
Read more- February 16, 2022
Last week saw the installation of a temporary sign marking the Dargaville entrance of the Kaihu Valley Trail.
Read more- February 14, 2022
The truss is now up on the abutments at the north bridge, with physical construction of the boardwalk starting last week.
Read more
- February 11, 2022
The council is upgrading wastewater systems and is asking people to flush responsibly.
Read moreSmart water use supports growth across diverse crops
- February 08, 2022
Growth is the word of the day when it comes to the Kaipara Water demonstration sites. The summer months have seen the former grassed paddocks turn into a jungle of green activity on both sites.
Read more- February 04, 2022
The Ministry for Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has released the $3.5M needed to protect existing stopbanks against flooding, along the western side of Wairoa River between Dargaville and Te Kopuru.
Read moreTwo thirds of Maungaturoto raw watermain renewal work completed
- February 02, 2022
Work is progressing well on the raw watermain renewals in Maungaturoto.
Read moreFinding balance: meeting wastewater demand
- February 02, 2022
The Council is about to start constructing a balance tank, to increase the capacity of the Mangawhai Community Wastewater Scheme.
Read more- January 28, 2022
Although recent rain has been welcomed by landowners, it is causing headaches for Kaipara District Council’s Raupo stopbank improvement project, in Ruawai.
Read more- January 26, 2022
Representatives of the Pahi community met with Council at the wharf last week to work out where a new toilet block could go.
Read more- January 14, 2022
A small gathering, a prayer and a blessing to keep workers safe marked the start of the work on-site for the Kaiwaka footbridges.
Read moreDawn blessing opens the Pahi wharf upgrade
- December 21, 2021
Construction for the Pahi wharf upgrade ended as it began months ago, with the sky lighting up slowly on the people gathered together. Voices joined in karakia and waiata, led by kaumatua Hone Martin and representatives of Te Uri o Hau swirled around the Kaipara harbour as a dawn blessing was performed to open the wharf’s gangway and pontoon.
Read moreVillage intersections and shared path - December 2021
- December 15, 2021
With the border opening there will be increased traffic travelling through both of the worksites. Please remind your visitors ahead of their arrival that these are still active work sites in the lead up to the break – give your friends and family a heads up so they can be prepared for possible travel delays and can plan their journeys accordingly.
Read moreSeeds sown for Kaipara Water demonstration sites
- December 03, 2021
Visitors to the Kaipara Water demonstration sites will spot the beginnings of green growth starting to peek through the soil.
Read moreOver $4M spent on Unsealed Roading Network in 2021
- November 18, 2021
The $8.06M Unsealed Roading Network project that began in May last year, has crossed the halfway mark with completion of the first season’s physical pavement and associated works at a cost of $4.3M to end of October.
Read more- November 15, 2021
Extra low tides earlier this month allowed Huband Contractors to work on some of the timber repairs around the lower parts of the tidal stairs.
Read morePouto wharf construction to start in 2022
- November 03, 2021
Construction work for the new Poutō wharf will begin in 2022.
Read moreWaipoua River Road works set to start
- November 02, 2021
An onsite blessing will be held by Te Roroa on Friday 12 November to mark the start of construction on the $1.8m Waipoua River Road project.
Read moreWork starting on Maungaturoto's raw watermain pipes
- October 22, 2021
Over the next few months, our team and contractors will replace approximately 3,000m of ageing raw watermain pipes.
Read more- October 20, 2021
A total of $45,155.00 has been awarded in the latest funding round for the Mangawhai Endowment Lands Account (MELA).
Read moreIntersection works progress ahead of Labour Weekend
- October 15, 2021
There’s been significant progress on the Village intersection improvements recently. Night works have enabled the programme to see only a small delay in spite of the recent Level 4 lockdown and restrictions.
Read moreSecond LittaTrap audit reveals increase in rubbish
- October 15, 2021
Findings of the latest LittaTrap audit found an increase of rubbish captured. LittaTraps (a simple, cost-effective net that sits inside a stormwater grate) have been installed around Northland through a multi-agency initiative.
Read moreBaylys Beach access closed while remediation works underway
- October 13, 2021
Earlier this month an extreme rain event at Baylys Beach, followed by periods of further wet weather, saw signifcant damage inflicted on the beach access.
Read moreWork on the Pahi wharf upgrade continues at pace
- October 12, 2021
The Huband crew have been working at the end of the wharf recently, preparing the connection for the new gangway, and replacing pile caps and stringers.
Read more- October 06, 2021
If you’re connected to Council’s treated water supply system, your most recent water invoice may have shown an increase in the cost for your first cubic meter of water.
Read moreLetter from KDC to Hon Nanaia Mahuta
- September 30, 2021
Considerations from Kaipara District about the Three Waters Reforms.
Read morePahi wharf upgrade - old handrails come down, new ones go up
- September 22, 2021
It’s been a hive of activity down at the Pahi wharf recently. The upgrade has started with local contractors Huband carrying out the carpentry and repair work on the wharf.
Read more- September 22, 2021
Ngā mihi mō au korero whakahoki!
Thank you for your feedback. We had a fantastic response to our recent survey asking for help to select one of the trial crops for Kaipara Water demo site two. The winner by community vote was kaanga ma.
Read more- August 23, 2021
At the time of writing, we have just entered our first Level 4 lockdown since March of last year.
Read moreGreen light to accelerate intersection improvement works in Mangawhai Village
- August 10, 2021
A significant change in the programme for the much-needed Village intersection improvements will see the work finished in early December, ahead of schedule.
Read moreWorks progress on Mangawhai intersection improvements and shared path
- July 28, 2021
The United Civil team are starting to work in the road (Stage Two of their work staging plan), focusing on the area at the western entrance to the Moir Street / Insley Street intersection.
Read moreUnsealed road improvement works progressing
- July 28, 2021
Winter weather has slowed the reconstruction work to upgrade our unsealed roads, but no time is being wasted. Teams are clearing vegetation and drains in preparation for when reconstruction work can start again.
Read more- July 12, 2021
Kaipara District Council has been awarded a grant from the Creative NZ Local Government Arts Fund to develop an Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy.
Read more- July 01, 2021
The Kaihu Valley Trail is a 40km walking and biking track being constructed from Dargaville to Donnellys Crossing. It will form part of the Ancient Kauri Trail that extends from Omapere to Maungaturoto and be one of the 23 Great Rides around New Zealand.
Read more- June 30, 2021
A new stormwater network has been installed between 18 – 40 Jervois Street, Dargaville.
Read more- June 30, 2021
A survey of Ripiro Beach users to understand their concerns relating to beach use received over 1,700 responses.
Read moreCouncil responds to community submissions in Long Term Plan decisions
- June 30, 2021
Kaipara District Council today endorsed a future-focused Long Term Plan (LTP) which aims to respond to a growing population while caring for the environment and keeping rates increases low.
Read more- June 04, 2021
A section of Hokianga Road has been a hive of activity recently, with our contractors out busy replacing an ageing stormwater culvert.
Read more- June 01, 2021
A total of $13,049.00 has been granted from the first round of the Rural Travel Fund to eight schools and sporting organisations across the district.
Read moreWork starts on Mangawhai Village intersection improvements
- June 01, 2021
Construction work on the Mangawhai Village intersection improvements started this week.
Read more- May 28, 2021
We are stoked to be part of an excellent collaborative project, trapping and assessing rubbish before it finds its way into our waterways and out to sea.
Read moreInfrastructure renewal projects roll out across the District
- May 19, 2021
Nine infrastructure renewal projects are being rolled out across Kaipara District this year.
Read more- May 10, 2021
Kaipara District Council has developed a new formula for unsealed roads that results in a more durable, and lower maintenance, surface.
Read moreKaipara District Council awards Creative Communities Scheme funding to six applicants
- April 21, 2021
Some of Kaipara’s arts projects got a boost recently with $14,894.80 awarded in the latest Creative Communities Scheme funding round.
Read more- April 13, 2021
In the first few months of 2021 there’s been a trickle of new information which has led to a substantial update on the long-running story of the debt levels of Kaipara District Council’s Mangawhai Wastewater Scheme.
Read more- April 07, 2021
Kaipara District Council has published a report about the outstanding historic debt and capacity of the Mangawhai Wastewater Scheme (MWWS).
Read more- March 05, 2021
Two footbridges are to be erected in Kaiwaka, parallel to State Highway 1 and crossing streams at the northern end of the township.
Read moreTalk with Elected Members about future plans
- February 24, 2021
Kaipara District Council is consulting on their proposed plan for the next ten years and Elected Members will be on hand to talk about it and answer questions.
Read morePlan to grow a better Kaipara shaping up
- February 10, 2021
Kaipara District Council has laid out its vision for the next decade of development in its Long Term Plan (LTP) and is asking the community if they agree.
Read more- February 02, 2021
Creative Communities Scheme is now open for funding applications. The funding is available to support a wide range of arts projects – previous recipients include Te Kopuru School for their Matariki celebrations and the Mangawhai Museum for their Winter Series.
Read more- January 25, 2021
If you're out and about around Lorne, Pirika, and Haimona Street, you may spot our team and contractors undertaking work on the Dargaville water mains.
Read more- January 19, 2021
‘Water’ will be a word to watch in 2021, as far as Kaipara District Council is concerned. To start with,
low river flows mean water restrictions are in place for our largest reticulated town supply to Dargaville
and Baylys Beach.
Long Term Plan 2021/2031 update
- December 02, 2020
See the results from surveys and events we've undertaken recently as part of our Long Term Plan.
Read more- November 23, 2020
Have you ever looked at a verge or berm around your area and wondered why it has a dip in its centre? That subtle depression is doing an incredibly important job – it’s called a swale and they're an essential part of our stormwater services.
Read moreKickStart Water demonstration sites approved by Kaipara District Council
- November 18, 2020
Two proposed demonstration sites for the Kaipara Water project have been given the green light from Council, which will serve as real-life working examples of the best ways to irrigate high value horticultural crops.
Read more- November 16, 2020
Ruawai Water treatment plant played host to a number of local school kids as part of the EnviroSchools Water for Life
programme last week. The programme is a Northland Regional Council initiative.
- November 04, 2020
The beautiful stretch of weather we’ve been enjoying is great for the beach, but not for water supplies. Being wise with water at the beginning of the season can ease the pressures later on. Let’s streeeeeeech the supply as far as we can.
Read more- September 04, 2020
Kaipara District Council Elected Members opted in to the first part of a reform of the three waters system when they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the end of August.
Read moreKaipara District Council awards funds to 12 Mangawhai organisations
- September 01, 2020
A total of $132,320.00 has been awarded in the latest funding round for the Mangawhai Endowment Lands Account (MELA).
Read moreKaipara District Council awards funds to 41 community groups and organisations
- July 17, 2020
More than $122,000 has been awarded in the latest Kaipara District Council funding rounds for Community Grants, Rural Travel Fund, and Creative Communities Scheme.
Read more