The organisation is owned by the three councils, which will continue to manage water services until Central Districts Water begins full operations on 1 July 2027.

Board connects with staff and councils

The newly appointed Board of independent directors was formally welcomed with a pōwhiri in Palmerston North last Wednesday, hosted by representatives from Nga Tapūwae o Hau, which is a rōpū (working group) formed by the collective iwi across the three council regions to represent them.

They have three representatives sitting on the shareholders committee alongside representatives of the three shareholder councils.

Following the welcome, Board members joined a workshop with elected members where they heard more about the development of the Statement of Expectations, the key document outlining what councils expect of Central Districts Water, and received an update on the planned transfer of debt next year.

On Thursday, the Board travelled across the three districts to meet with staff working in, and supporting, water services.

Central Districts Water Board Chair, Hon Steve Maharey, said the visits were an important opportunity to build understanding early.

“It’s important to the Board that we understand the unique features of each of the three council areas,” Mr Maharey said.

“Central Districts Water will need to support large urban centres like Palmerston North, the coastal communities of Horowhenua, and the rural areas of Rangitīkei. Getting out early to meet staff and elected members has been a valuable opportunity to listen and learn, and to build a strong understanding before decisions are made.”

The Board will now meet monthly as the transition of services to Central Districts Water begins.

Transition Director Chris Dyhrberg said Central Districts Water has also taken a significant step forward with its registration as a company.

“This is a requirement under the Government’s Local Water Done Well legislation and formally establishes the organisation as a legal entity. It enables Central Districts Water to begin putting in place the people, systems and financial arrangements needed to operate, and marks the start of the transition toward taking on responsibility for water services over time.”

He said the transition team, which includes staff from Horowhenua District Council, Palmerston North City Council, and Rangitīkei District Council, is working together to ensure local priorities are reflected in the new organisation.

“We have strong momentum, and the establishment team is working collaboratively to build an organisation that will deliver high-quality water services while reflecting the needs and character of each local community.”

With the Board now in place, its immediate focus is recruiting and appointing a Chief Executive. The recruitment process is now underway.

Pictured below: Members of the Central Districts Water board at the Pōwhiri.

About Central Districts Water

Central Districts Water is a council-controlled organisation being established by Horowhenua District Council, Palmerston North City Council, and Rangitīkei District Council to deliver drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater services across the three districts.

The organisation will be responsible for managing, maintaining, and investing in water infrastructure to ensure safe, reliable, and sustainable services for communities now and into the future.

Anzac Day remains one of New Zealand’s most significant days of remembrance. It is a time to reflect on the courage, service and loss connected to war, and to honour returned and current New Zealand Defence Force personnel.

A range of dawn, civic and retreat services will be held across the district, with commemorations taking place in Foxton, Levin, Manakau, Moutoa, Ōhau, Shannon, Tokomaru and Waitārere Beach.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says Anzac Day continues to hold deep meaning for communities across Horowhenua.

“Anzac Day gives us the chance to stop, reflect and remember those who served our country, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“It is also an opportunity for people of all ages to come together as a community, pay their respects and acknowledge the lasting impact of service across generations.”

People are encouraged to attend a local service and take part in this year’s commemorations.

Anzac Day observances in Horowhenua on Saturday 25 April 2026

Foxton 28th Māori Battalion Service

5.45am – Head to cenotaph for Foxton Dawn Service
6.30am – Service at St John’s Methodist Church, Avenue Road, following the Dawn Service

Foxton Dawn Service

5.30am – Assemble on Clyde Street, outside Foxton Memorial Hall
5.45am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.00am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place in Foxton Memorial Hall

Foxton Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, Main Street
9.35am – Parade assembles on Wharf Street and moves off to Cenotaph
9.40am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place inside Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom

Levin Dawn Service

5.45am – Assemble on the corner of Kent and Winchester Streets
6.00am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
6.45am – Return parade down Kent Street
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place at Levin RSA

Levin Civic Ceremony

10.00am – Parade assembles on Kent Street, past Thompson House Gardens
10.10am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
10.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō

Levin Retreat Ceremonies

4.45pm – The Avenue Cemetery
5.15pm – Tiro Tiro Road Cemetery

Manakau Special Memorial Service

7.20am – Assemble outside Manakau Hall to march to the War Memorial in Honi Taipua Street

Moutoa Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Moutoa Memorial Gates, Foxton-Shannon Road

Ōhau Civic Ceremony

3.00pm – Formal reflections and acknowledgement of Anzac Day at Ōhau Community Hall
3.30pm – Tea, coffee and Anzac biscuits, all welcome

Shannon Civic Ceremony

11.15am – Parade assembles at the corner of Vance Street and Plimmer Terrace
11.25am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
11.30am – Cenotaph Service begins

Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Shannon Memorial Hall

Tokomaru Civic Ceremony

10.00am – RSA and Country Club, Matipo Street

Waitārere Beach Civic Ceremony

8.30am – Tea and coffee at Waitārere Beach Bowling Club, Park Avenue
9.00am – Service begins

Road closures

Some temporary road closures will be in place to support the safety of participants and the public during parades and services. People are asked to follow signage and allow a little extra time when travelling on the day.

Wet Weather contingency

If bad weather is forecast, ceremonies will move indoors where possible. Any venue changes will be announced on Council’s Facebook page (@HorowhenuaDC) on the morning of Anzac Day.

Lest we forget.

Figures released by Stats NZ in February showed that the unemployment rate for 15 to 24-year-olds across New Zealand was at 16.5 percent, three times higher than the overall unemployment rate.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says across Horowhenua there are young people and jobseekers who want to work, contribute and build a future for themselves and their whānau, but who sometimes need the right support to take that next step.

“In every corner of Horowhenua there are young people and jobseekers who want to contribute, who want to work, and who want to build a future for themselves and their whānau,” Mayor Wanden says. “Often, what makes the difference is someone backing them, building their confidence, and helping open the door.”

Mayor Wanden says that what makes Mayors Taskforce for Jobs so special, is the unique way in which the team can support our job seekers. “Whether that be needing support to get the right gear to do the job, or a license that sets you up for success, that’s the true gold of this programme.”

Kereana Leith, MTFJ Community Employment Connector says the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs Community Employment Programme demonstrates the power of community‑led local solutions to address employment challenges, particularly for young people aged 16 to 24. Delivered at a grassroots level, the programme provides one‑on‑one support for jobseekers, helping them prepare for work and move into roles that are meaningful and sustainable. At the same time, it works directly with employers to understand their needs and support them to connect with local people.

With many people across the wider region facing growing financial pressure and barriers to employment, this local, community-led approach continues to play an important role in connecting young people with practical support, local employers and pathways into meaningful work.

“The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs recognises that one size doesn’t fit all,” says Kereana. “By working locally and in partnership with central government, councils and communities can tailor solutions that reflect the realities on the ground.”

The programme is designed to support both sides of the employment relationship.

Tyson Jones, Work Ready Champion says “This is about supporting people into work, but it’s also about supporting employers. When local businesses hire through this programme, they are not just filling a vacancy. They are investing in someone’s confidence, capability and future, while helping build a stronger local workforce.”

Local employers are encouraged to get in touch if they are looking for employees or want to understand how the programme can support their business. People who are looking for work, training or a new opportunity are also encouraged to reach out.

“If you are an employer looking for your next team member, we want to hear from you. And if you are someone looking for work or needing support to take that next step, we are here to help. This programme is about backing our people and backing our community” adds Tyson.

In May 2024, the Community Employment Programme reached a significant national milestone, with more than 6,000 predominantly young people placed into work across rural and provincial Aotearoa since early 2020. During the 2023/24 year alone, 1,404 people benefitted from the programme, exceeding the 1,111 outcomes it was contracted to deliver.

The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs is a nationwide movement of mayors committed to ensuring all young people are engaged in employment, education or training within their communities. For more information, visit the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs section, email mtfj@horowhenua.govt.nz or free phone 0800 944 994.

Held at Te Awahou Riverside Cultural Park from 8.30am to 3pm, the free family event will kick off New Zealand Dutch Week and bring Foxton to life with colour, music, games, food and plenty of Dutch flair.

Get ready to grab something orange and head to Foxton. The much-loved Big Dutch Day Out is back on Saturday 18 April 2026 – with a vibrant celebration of Dutch culture, community and fun for all ages.

One of the day’s most popular highlights is the famous Orange Bike Ride, with registrations opening at 8.30am and the ride getting underway at 9am. People are encouraged to dress themselves, and their bikes, in orange and join the fun as they roll through town in a sea of colour.

Visitors can also enjoy traditional Dutch games, dress up in Dutch costume, soak up the lively sounds of Amsterdam street music, and tuck into Dutch favourites like croquettes and fries. A visit to the iconic De Molen Windmill and Oranjehof Dutch Connection Centre is also a must, with plenty of opportunities to discover the stories of Dutch migrants who made Aotearoa New Zealand their home.

Foxton Windmill Trust Chair Judy Sanson says Big Dutch Day Out is a celebration of heritage, community and connection. 

“While De Molen is a symbol of Dutch heritage, it is also a symbol of how community and cultures came together to build an iconic working heritage building right here in Foxton.

“It brings tens of thousands of visitors to town each year and creates a positive impact for our local business and tourism community, while also sharing Dutch culture and history with visitors from near and far.

“There is a real sense that this event is gezellig. It is a Dutch word that describes a warm, cosy, friendly atmosphere where people feel welcome, enjoy being together and have fun. It is about connection, comfort and sharing a good time, and that is exactly what Big Dutch Day Out is all about.

“Any profit from Big Dutch Day Out will go towards the maintenance fund for the blades on De Molen. With the salt-laden winds here in Foxton, maintenance is needed from time to time to help make sure the windmill continues to operate well into the future.”

Mayor Bernie Wanden says Big Dutch Day Out is one of those special events that has something for everyone. 

“From the famous Orange Bike Ride to the music, food and family fun, it is a fantastic way to experience Foxton’s unique Dutch heritage and enjoy a great day out together.”

“Events like this help bring communities together, celebrate what makes places like Foxton Special and create the kind of connection and vibrancy that supports community wellbeing.”

“If you have never been before, this is the year to get along to Foxton, wear orange and be part of the fun.”

This year’s event will also include the launch of New Zealand Dutch Week, with Netherlands Ambassador Ard van der Vorst attending.

Event details
Date: Saturday 18 April 2026
Time: 8.30am to 3pm
Where: Te Awahou Riverside Cultural Park, Foxton
Entry: Free

For more information, visit teawahou.com/Whats-On

This inquiry follows the last two annual reviews of FENZ, and the extra Select Committee hearing with FENZ two weeks ago, all of which raised serious questions.

“I stand by our firefighters. That’s why I wrote to the Select Committee and moved a motion asking for an inquiry and I’m pleased all members have agreed,” says Costley.

“I am increasingly concerned by the fleet issues within FENZ that continue to provide more questions than answers, and by the confusing and contradictory nature of those answers.

“I receive daily messages from firefighters about fire trucks breaking down or not being available when needed. While there are a range of issues that have been raised more broadly around FENZ, the most consistent that has arisen on every occasion is that of FENZ’ fleet (fire trucks).

Costley says it is important that we get timely and accurate answers about what is happening with their trucks, the delays and breakdowns, and how long it will be before all current trucks are on the road.

“The impact of failures in this space is one that impacts every community in New Zealand, whether those areas have volunteer or paid staff, high-rise or low-rise, urban or rural.

“Our firefighters do an amazing job risking their lives to help New Zealanders in need – and I fully back them. What is important is that they have the necessary support from their leadership to effectively carry out their duties. This enquiry will provide the answers that every community and firefighter deserves,” says Costley.

The inquiry will be held over the coming months, gathering evidence through public submissions, hearings, and stakeholder consultations. The final report will deliver recommendations to Parliament.

However some provisions are to be withdrawn as per Minister Christopher Bishop’s decision on Council’s Plan Stop exemption application to the Ministry for the Environment.

Proposed Plan Change 6A seeks to rezone 22ha of land on the northwest of Levin from Deferred Residential (Future Residential) to Residential. This land is one of Council’s identified urban growth areas – known as Levin North West 1 (LNW1). If approved, the rezoning will allow urban-scale subdivision to happen, enabling 400 to 500 dwellings on a range of section sizes.

Minister Christopher Bishop has advised that he considered Council’s application and was satisfied that Proposed Plan Change 6A met the criteria under the RMA for an exemption and could proceed in part. However, some provisions were identified as not appropriate to continue and must now be withdrawn.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says the decision gives clarity about what happens next.

“Proposed Plan Change 6A is an important part of planning for Horowhenua’s future growth, and this decision gives us a clear way forward,” says Mayor Bernie.

“It means the plan change can keep moving, while also making it clear which parts will continue and which parts have been withdrawn.”

“While we are disappointed that the removal of some provisions means work Council and Muaūpoko Tribal Authority put into shaping this plan change will not move forward as originally proposed, we remain focused on the parts that can still proceed and on planning well for our growing community.”

The provisions being withdrawn include three policies, six permitted activity conditions and one rule.

Mayor Bernie says it is important that the community understands both the decision and the next step in the process.

“We know submitters and residents want to understand what this means, and we will continue to keep people informed as the process moves ahead.”

The remainder of Proposed Plan Change 6A will now proceed to a public hearing. The hearing date will be advised in due course through a public notice and webpage update. Submitters who asked to speak at the hearing will also be advised directly.

For more information, visit letskorero.horowhenua.govt.nz/PPC6A

Council’s Community Facilities and Services Manager Mark Hammond says, “Council knows there is never a good time to temporarily close a well-used facility, but the work is needed to keep the Aquatic Centre safe, reliable and fit for purpose for the community.” 

“We know this will be inconvenient for many people, especially regular users, families and those who rely on the different facilities or swim programmes.” 

“While disruption is not ideal, this is about Council investing in the long-term future of our community facilities so they can continue to support a thriving, connected Horowhenua,” Mayor Bernie Wanden adds.

The full Aquatic Centre closure will begin on Monday 13 April, with the facility planned to reopen on Monday 11 May.

Mark Hammond says, “Organising this kind of work is always challenging, and we do everything we can to reduce disruption to our swim school, fitness programme, and school holidays. It’s not easy, but that’s why we’ve chosen these dates.”

The Hydrotherapy Pool will close a week earlier from Monday 6 April, so ceiling tiles above the pool can be replaced before the full shutdown begins. This will also allow a new hydrotherapy pool liner to be installed.

During the closure, Foxton Pools will remain open, with additional classes and extended hours where possible. Swim lessons and some aquatic programmes will also continue at Foxton Pool where they can, and Swim School families will receive direct communication about any changes affecting them.

The work includes renewals to pool tanks, membranes, tiling, grouting and expansion joints, along with upgrades to circulating pumps, filtration and heating systems. Other work includes repairs to hardware, masonry, cladding, flooring, painting and replacement of the water supply on the eastern side of the facility, including hot water supply to the changing rooms.

While the closure will not be ideal for some, the work is necessary. Council appreciates the community’s patience while this work is completed and look forward to welcoming everyone back to a refreshed Levin Aquatic Centre.

We will continue to share updates on its website and Facebook pages as the project progresses.

For more information, visit the Levin Aquatic Centre Maintenance and Renewal Works project page

On Friday the Hutt Valley, Kāpiti and Johnsonville lines will be running with increased capacity added after the game and there will be extra services on these lines before and after Saturday’s match.

The Wairarapa Line will be running on its usual timetable – with Friday’s last service leaving Wellington Station at 10.25pm and Saturday’s last service at 6.55pm.

Core bus routes will have increased capacity, and the East-by-West ferry will be running at standard operating times. 

Metlink recommends using a Snapper card to tag on and off, instead of cash, to access discounted fares.  

Plan ahead and travel early on game day using the latest travel information on the Metlink app, website, or by calling 0800 801 700.    

While to the south, Wellington Water continues to self-destruct, the model is far more hopeful for Central Districts Water which is a jointly owned water services council controlled organisation (WS-CCO)  that will begin operating from 1 July 2027.

While each council will retain ownership of its water assets, the Shareholders’ Committee provides a formal mechanism for shared oversight and local input as the new entity is established and transitions into operation. 

In December 2025, the three councils agreed that the Shareholders’ Committee would be made up of the Mayor of each Council, an elected member (and an alternative) from each council, and the committee will have three iwi representatives. 

The collective iwi across the three council regions have formed a Roopu (working group), called Nga Tapuwae o Hau, to represent them.  The three iwi nominations to the Committee were made through Nga Tapuwae o Hau for the three councils to approve.

Horowhenua District Council is represented by Mayor Bernie Wanden, Councillor Sam Jennings, with Councillor Mike Barker as the alternate.

Palmerston North City Council is represented by Mayor Grant Smith, Councillor Kaydee Zabelin, with Councillor Brent Barrett as alternate

Rangitikei District Council is represented by Mayor Andy Watson, Deputy Mayor Dave Wilson, with Councillor Fiona Dalgety as alternate. 

The iwi representatives will be Hayden Turoa of the Tainui Confederation with Tiwana Tibble as his alternate, Danielle Harris of the Kura hau po Confederation, with Di Rump as her alternate, and Marj Heeney representing the Greater Rangitikei region, with Suze Hepi as her alternate.

The Mayor of Horowhenua District Council, Bernie Wanden says the appointments reinforce to our communities the importance of local voice and partnership in shaping the future of water services.

“This committee brings together councils and iwi to ensure decisions are grounded in local knowledge, local priorities, and long-term care for our communities and environment. Strong local representation and shared oversight are critical as Central Districts Water is established.”

The committee’s first task will be to oversee the shortlisting of over 60 applicants who have put their names forward for the Central Districts Water board.

Palmerston North City Mayor Grant Smith says the strong interest in board roles reflects the importance of getting the foundations right.

“We’ve seen a high calibre field of applicants, with experience across governance, infrastructure, finance and community leadership. It’s a positive signal for our region, and it means we can take the time to appoint a board with the skills needed to set Central Districts Water up well from the start.”

Rangitikei Mayor Andy Watson says the Shareholders’ Committee will meet for the first time this week, with board appointments a key priority.

“Our focus now is on making sure the right governance is in place so the new organisation can be ready to deliver from day one. This is an important milestone, and we’ll continue to keep our communities informed as the next steps progress.”

Fish & Game made a submission on the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill which sets out the specific changes needed to ensure the new laws work as intended — protecting the habitats, waterways, and public access that anglers and hunters rely on.

“We support replacing the RMA and we want this reform to succeed,” Chief Executive Corina Jordan says.

“But the Bills as drafted make it much harder for trout, salmon, and other valued introduced species to be protected. They define ecosystem health solely around indigenous species, which means environmental limits can’t be set with trout and salmon habitat in mind.

“While Fish & Game has been advocating for a reduction in bureaucracy and costs when restoring wetlands, we are concerned that the ability to protect wetlands has been reduced in the bills. We want to see a definition of wetlands and clear mechanisms to protect them – we’ve already lost more than 90 percent of what we once had,” says Ms Jordan.

“Access is a priority for our licence holders, losing access to a river is losing something we all have a right to enjoy. Access needs to be protected and improved.

“Ultimately, these proposed reforms as they currently stand mean an uncertain future for anglers and hunters.”

Fish & Game’s detailed submission on the reforms is available here.

The submission sets out the specific changes needed to ensure the new laws work as intended – protecting the habitats, waterways, and public access that anglers and hunters rely on.

Fish & Game’s submission calls for amendments to ensure:

• The goals framework explicitly includes recreation, fishing, hunting, public access, and habitat for trout, salmon, and game birds
• The ecosystem health definition is expanded to include valued introduced species so environmental limits can protect trout and salmon habitat
• Wetlands are clearly defined and explicitly protected, while restoration pathways are enabled
• Esplanade reserve provisions are strengthened and the 20-metre minimum width retained
• Water Conservation Orders and Sports Fish and Game Management Plans are recognised in planning and consenting decisions

Recreational fishing and game bird hunting contribute to regional economies and are a cornerstone of recreation, wellbeing, and connection to place for hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders.

“This submission reflects three decades of clear mandate from our licence holders: habitat, water quality, and access are what matter most. We are asking Parliament to listen to them.”

About Fish & Game New Zealand

Fish & Game New Zealand is the statutory manager for sports fish and game birds, established under the Conservation Act 1987. It manages trout, salmon, and game birds and advocates for the freshwater habitats they depend on, on behalf of 175,000 licence holders. Fish & Game is entirely user-funded.