Carterton District Council marked a significant milestone on Monday 22 September 2025 with the official opening of the Waingawa Process WaterPlant.
Now operational, the plant provides a reliable supplyof non-potable water to businesses in the Waingawa Industrial Area, offering a lower-cost alternative to traditional potable water services.
Hon Ron Mark, Mayor of Carterton, said the plant was a strategic asset for Waingawa, Wairarapa and the Greater Wellington Region.
“This is the place where Wellington can develop its industrial footprint that it so desperately needs,” Mayor Mark said.
“The only reason Carterton is in this position is because going back as far as 2010, successive councils that have been elected have been bold and brave enough to push ahead and do stuff and weather the criticism forincreasing rates to enable them to do that.”
The Waingawa Process Water Plant is expected to help reduce operational costs for businesses while promoting more sustainable water use across the District and is proudly supported by Kānoa – Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit and the Wairarapa Economic Development Strategy.
“The completion of this water project is a big win for our business community. It’s all about smart, sustainable growth – helping companies save on costs, protect resources, and stay competitive. We're excited to see how this opens up new opportunities across the region,” says Stuart Taylor, Chair of WEDS-WP Steering Group and WellingtonNZ General Manager Business and Innovation.
Businesses interested in connecting to the new water supplyare encouraged to contact Carterton District Council on 06 379 4030 or email info@cdc.govt.nz. Council staff are available to assist withenquiries and connection arrangements - https://cdc.govt.nz/waingawa-process-water-plant/