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Engagement

Following the wide research, engagement and technical consultation, we entered the formal public consultation phase. The proposed wastewater standards were open for public consultation from 25 February to 24 April 2025.

Formal consultation was based on a discussion document and sought written feedback. We hosted 17 targeted webinars and Q&A sessions for key audiences such as network operators, consenting authorities, iwi, and hapū. An eight-week public consultation process resulted in 151 high-quality submissions, including a strong response from iwi and hapū.

Regional hui and targeted stakeholder meetings further supported the process. There was broad support – especially from local government and industry – for establishing national standards to improve consistency and regulatory certainty. However, many submitters called for stronger environmental protections, clearer implementation guidance and fewer exemptions. Common themes included the need for tighter limits, improved monitoring and expanded standards to cover discharges to air, heavy metals and emerging contaminants.

More information, including a report on engagement and individual submissions, will be provided following final decisions on the wastewater standards.

 

Iwi and hapū involvement

We engaged with mana whenua and local councils to co-develop six case studies focused on local wastewater treatment plants. The case studies were in Gisborne, Taipā, Rotoiti-Rotomā, Cambridge, Pukekohe and Porirua. Developed in close partnership with iwi and hapū, the case studies provided valuable insights into their experiences with the resource consenting process, as well as the cultural values and aspirations that underpin their views on wastewater treatment.

We used a range of mechanisms to support iwi and hapū engagement on the proposals, including: 

  • 15 iwi and hapū webinars, which provided an opportunity for us to share information about the wastewater standards project
  • 68 engagement meetings.

 For further information:

Treaty settlement obligations require decision-makers under the Water Services Act 2021, including territorial authorities, regional councils and the Authority, to respond to particular principles and interests in the Waikato, Waipā, Whangaehu and Whanganui River catchments and specific engagement was held in those areas.

There are also a range of other statutory and non-statutory arrangements in place that are relevant to iwi / Māori interests in water generally, or water services infrastructure. We analysed these arrangements and conducted targeted and broader public engagement with iwi / Māori in the development of the proposed wastewater standards.

 These engagements informed advice to the Minister of Local Government on how the standards could apply where there are Treaty settlement or other relevant obligations.

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