Why partnership matters
Water does not begin or end at district boundaries. Rivers, streams, aquifers, wetlands, and coastlines connect communities across the region and across generations.
Iwi and hapū hold longstanding relationships with these places, with deep mātauranga and responsibilities as kaitiaki. Strong partnerships help ensure decisions about water services reflect both technical expertise and the values of place, people, and environment.
Tā Mātou Whakaaetanga
We are committed to building genuine and practical partnerships with iwi across the Waikato region. This includes:
- Early and meaningful engagement
- Respectful relationships and ongoing dialogue
- Recognising Te Tiriti o Waitangi responsibilities
- Supporting shared understanding and informed decision-making
- Integrating mātauranga Māori where appropriate
- Protecting the long-term health of wai and the environment
Partnership is not a one-off conversation. It is an ongoing way of working.
Mahi tahi
As Waikato Waters develops, iwi partnership will help shape how we operate, plan, and invest for the future. This may include collaboration in strategic planning, environmental outcomes, source water protection, cultural values and place-based knowledge, governance participation, long-term infrastructure thinking, and community wellbeing outcomes.
We know every relationship is unique, and approaches will reflect local context.
Te Mana o Te Wai, Te Mana o Te Tangata
Healthy Water, Healthy People. This recognises that the wellbeing of water comes first, and that healthy water supports healthy communities. It reflects a shared responsibility to care for essential resources with humility, responsibility, and foresight.
Building for future generations
Good water management is not only about today's needs. It is about leaving strong systems, healthy waterways, and trusted relationships for those who come after us. That is the spirit we bring to our partnerships.