Petition request

That the House of Representatives either repeal clauses in the Local Government (Water Services) Act 2025 that allow water organisations to set compulsory water charges for households; or require that the Boards of water organisations be directly elected by the residents in the relevant territorial authorities.

Petition reason

Everyone needs water. I believe NZ has a long-standing Constitutional right, that those with power to levy compulsory charges are directly accountable to the public through democratic elections. The Local Government (Water Services) Act 2025 lets water organisations set charges. In my view, this removed accountability to households and restoring it would enable them to hold decision-makers accountable, protect service affordability and transparency, and give local communities a stronger voice.

Signatures are now being accepted
31 days left
Closing date: 15 Sep 2026 11:59 PM NZST
434 signed
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Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 434
Closing date: 15 Sep 2026