Welcome, Wellingtonians! Today, we’re diving deep into a topic that directly affects our wallets and our health: the Wellington Water vote.

Today’s decision by Wellington City Council (WCC) could shape the future of our city’s water — and not in a good way. With Wellingtonians already paying three times what residents in other parts of New Zealand pay for water services, the pressure is on. But as the vote looms, one thing is clear: WCC is cornered — by past failures, rising costs, and growing public distrust.

The Numbers Don’t Lie: Triple the Cost, Triple the Outrage

Recent data reveals that Wellington households are now contributing up to three times more for water services than comparable cities like Christchurch or Hamilton. And yet, we still face frequent pipe bursts, sewage overflows, and boil water notices — hardly a return on investment. Ratepayers are rightly asking: Where is the money going?

The answer? Cost blowouts. Massive ones.

A Pipeline of Problems

Wellington Water’s financial management has come under intense scrutiny. According to internal council documents and multiple audit reviews, the city has blown through tens of millions in unplanned spending, particularly on emergency repairs and delayed upgrades. What was once forecast as a manageable infrastructure upgrade has ballooned into a crisis of confidence — and cost.

Just last year, a project originally budgeted at $10 million to upgrade wastewater systems ended up costing over $30 million. And that’s just one example. A recent independent review found that poor project oversight, inconsistent reporting, and lack of long-term planning have all contributed to the spiralling expenses.

The Hidden Cost: Public Health

Today’s vote isn’t just about money — it’s about health. The city’s aging, leaking pipes are already putting residents at risk. Experts warn that without serious investment and strategic planning, Wellington could face widespread contamination events, including:

• More boil water notices

• Increased risk of gastro outbreaks

• Long-term environmental damage to waterways

These outcomes don’t just harm the city’s image — they endanger lives and rack up millions more in health and cleanup costs.

A Vote That Could Backfire

WCC faces a no-win situation today. Voting against increased investment risks worsening the infrastructure and endangering public health. But voting for more funding — without a clear accountability framework — could deepen public anger and lead to further mismanagement.

Caught between outrage and urgency, WCC is trapped. And so are we.

The People Deserve Better

Wellingtonians are among the most highly charged ratepayers in the country, yet feel powerless in the face of repeated failures. Community polls by One Network Wellington Live show that over 70% of residents lack confidence in WCC’s ability to manage water infrastructure.

What residents are calling for isn’t just more money thrown at the problem — it’s leadership, transparency, and accountability.

What Needs to Happen Now

• Full audit of Wellington Water’s financials and project management

• Transparent reporting on where ratepayer money is spent

• Clear health and safety benchmarks tied to infrastructure funding

• Independent oversight for all future upgrades

• Public consultation before any major investment decisions

Conclusion: A Call to Action

In conclusion, the vote on Wellington Water today is more than a bureaucratic decision; it’s a choice about our city’s future health, financial stability, and quality of life. With costs three times higher than other councils, millions lost to inefficiency, and rising health risks, the stakes are high. We at One Network Wellington Live urge you to get informed, discuss with your neighbours, and make your voice heard. Let’s ensure that Wellington’s water management reflects the needs and values of its people, ensuring a safer, healthier, and more cost-effective future for all.

Thank you for reading, and remember, your vote today shapes our tomorrow. 💧