Wellington mayor Andrew Little says Tiaki Wai’s estimated $500–590m cost for installing 140,000 water meters is not credible.

Little says Tiaki Wai used figures inherited from Wellington Water and that its own leaders doubt the numbers. He expects the entity to restart the business case after taking over water services on 1 July.

Former councillor Tim Brown says the situation is unprofessional. He says households were effectively told they may face $4000 each for meters, only for the mayor to now say the plan must be rebuilt. Brown says installation should cost about $1400 per household and questions whether pipe replacements are needed everywhere.

Tiaki Wai says costs were always subject to change. Chief executive Michael Brewster says the draft strategy relied on Wellington Water data and the board is reassessing. He says smart meters must connect directly to property pipes, which may require significant civil and mechanical work, especially on difficult sites.

Tiaki Wai expects an updated cost plan near the end of 2026.

Source: Ellen O’Dwyer / Radio New Zealand

27/05/26