Require an independent review of Wellington’s Tiaki Wai water charges

That the House of Representatives require an independent review of the affordability, fairness, transparency, and calculation of Wellington’s Tiaki Wai water service charges, including their combined impact with council rates; and consider measures to ensure charges remain reasonable and affordable for households.

From 1 July 2026, Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt and Porirua households began paying separate water charges to Tiaki Wai, alongside council rates. Tiaki Wai states the average 2026/27 charge is $2,390, compared with about $2,100 previously paid through rates. With further increases anticipated, I think an independent review is needed to ensure charges are fair, transparent, and affordable; and households are protected from unreasonable increases.