ŌDC signs Shareholders Agreement with Waikato Water Ltd

Ōtorohanga District Council (ŌDC) has taken the next major step toward joining Waikato Water Ltd (WWL), a council-owned company for regional water and wastewater services, by signing the Shareholders Agreement today.

This signing confirms Council’s commitment to working alongside other Waikato councils to shape the region’s future water and wastewater services. While ŌDC will continue to manage its services in-house for now, the agreement ensures the district has a strong voice in how WWL is set up and governed.

Mayor Max Baxter says this milestone reinforces Council’s focus on protecting local interests while building a resilient regional model.

“By signing the Shareholders Agreement, we’re making sure Ōtorohanga is fully represented as this new company takes shape. It’s about safeguarding our community’s needs and being proactive in developing a solution that works for both Ōtorohanga and the wider Waikato,” says Mayor Baxter.

ŌDC is to initially become a stage one shareholder and to look toward transferring assets and operations to the new company on 1 July 2027

The Council made its initial decision to progress toward joining WWL following extensive consultation, and Mayor Baxter says ongoing community updates will remain a priority.

“We know how important safe and reliable water services are for everyone in our district. This agreement is a significant step, and we’ll continue to keep people informed as the process unfolds,” he says.

More information on Local Water Done Well and WWL is available at: https://engage.otodc.govt.nz/local-water-done-well