Central Districts Water Statement of Expectations

In August 2026, Horowhenua District Council, Palmerston North City Council, Rangitīkei District Council and Nga Tapūwae o Hau agreed the expectations for Central Districts Water, including affordability, reliable services, long-term investment and local accountability.

What we expect from Central Districts Water

Central Districts Water (CDW) is the new council-owned water organisation that will deliver drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services across Horowhenua, Palmerston North and Rangitīkei from 1 July 2027.

In August 2026, the Central Districts Water Joint Shareholders’ Committee agreed a Statement of Expectations for CDW.

The Joint Shareholders’ Committee represents the three councils and Nga Tapūwae o Hau. It brings together representatives from Horowhenua District Council, Palmerston North City Council and Rangitīkei District Council, alongside iwi representatives, and provides direction and oversight on behalf of CDW’s owners and partners.

The Statement of Expectations sets out what the Shareholders’ Committee expects from CDW as the organisation is established and once it begins delivering water services.

It makes clear that CDW is expected to provide affordable, efficient, safe and reliable water services, while planning for the long term and remaining accountable and connected to the communities it serves.

It also sets expectations around:

  • affordability and value for money
  • long-term infrastructure investment and planning
  • reliable and resilient water services
  • strong governance and financial management
  • responsive customer service and open communication
  • improved environmental outcomes
  • recognising the different needs of Horowhenua, Palmerston North and Rangitīkei
  • meaningful involvement of councils, mana whenua, iwi and hapū in planning and delivery.

The Statement of Expectations is one of the key ways the Shareholders’ Committee provides direction to the CDW Board and sets out the outcomes it expects the organisation to deliver.

You can read the full Statement of Expectations here:

Central Districts Water Statement of Expectations(PDF, 653KB)

It is also available on the CDW website.

Until 1 July 2027, Palmerston North City Council remains responsible for water services in our city.

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