Rural Drinking Water Programme could make a real difference in Ōpōtiki

A new programme from central government could make a real difference supporting rural drinking water suppliers through the Ōpōtiki District.

Ōpōtiki Mayor, David Moore, said that the Rural Drinking Water Programme announced last week could be a game changer.

“Across the Ōpōtiki district, more than half of our drinking water connections are not through council-run schemes so this is top-of-mind for us.

“I would encourage anyone who is on a small community or marae-based water supply to look into this new fund, it can help upgrade equipment and training to use it. It is all about safer and sustainable drinking water for everyone,” Mayor Moore said.

The new fund covers private drinking water suppliers, papakāinga and kōhanga reo not on the town supply. There are a number of other factors to take into consideration and there is more information on the Crown Infrastructure Partners website.

Individual houses on private systems (for example rainwater tanks etc) are not covered by this new funding programme but may be able to approach Work and Income for additional support.