Kawerau District Council, Rotorua Lakes Council, Whakatāne District Council and Ōpōtiki District Council are working together to investigate the next best steps forward for community water services in the sub-region. The councils have been meeting regularly since the pōwhiri and heads of agreement signing last year.

In line with Waka Kotahi | NZTA’s national changes to temporary traffic management, Kawerau District Council is transitioning to a risk‑based approach by 1 July 2026 for all new contracts and 1 January 2027 for all existing contracts. By prioritising risk-based planning, we improve the safety of both road workers and road users. This approach aligns with Waka Kotahi ‘Road to Zero’ campaign, supporting safer roads for all. 

A milestone in future water service delivery was reached today, with Rotorua Lakes Council, Kawerau District Council, Whakatāne District Council and Ōpōtiki District Council confirming their shared commitment to work together to investigate a joint operating model for delivering water services to their communities.

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

For immediate release 18 October 2025 

Final Election Results 2025 

The final local election results are in! The nine seats around the Kawerau District Council table have been chosen by the voters, of which 45.3% turned out to have their say in the local elections 2025. 

This election, Kawerau District Council had the introduction of new wards with two district-wide seats, three general ward seats and three Māori wards seats to represent the community. 

For immediate release 

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF NOMINATION FOR THE KAWERAU GENERAL WARD

Kawerau District Council submitted the draft Water Services Delivery Plan three weeks ago, and last Friday August 15, received DIA’s feedback. 

Pānui Pāpāho І News Release

Whakatāne District, Kawerau District, Ōpōtiki District and Bay of Plenty Regional Councils have partnered to develop the Eastern Bay of Plenty Regional Deal Proposal.