Taupo District Council Delays Key Water Management Agreement

The Taupo District Council has decided to defer discussions regarding a significant water management agreement with the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board until after the upcoming local government elections in October 2025. This decision follows concerns about insufficient public consultation surrounding the draft Joint Management Agreement (JMA), which aims to safeguard the waters of Lake Taupō (Taupō Moana) and the Upper Waikato River.

During a council meeting on Thursday, elected officials voted to postpone the discussion, citing the need for further community engagement. The JMA is intended to facilitate collaboration between the council and the Trust Board on crucial activities, including monitoring and enforcement, district plan reviews, and assessments of resource consent applications. Additionally, it aims to support customary activities in the region.

David Trewavas, the Mayor of Taupo, expressed his support for the JMA but highlighted that the community had not been adequately involved in the process. He noted that misinformation had caused public concern, prompting the decision to defer the agreement until the new council is elected. Trewavas stated, “This will give them a chance to fully understand the agreement and what’s involved.”

In response, John Bishara, chair of the Trust Board, conveyed disappointment regarding the council’s choice to delay the decision. He emphasized that the JMA had been developed in accordance with the relevant legislation and was ready for adoption. Bishara criticized the council for debating public consultation, despite clear guidance indicating that it was not legally required under the Local Government Act or council policy.

“The fact that consultation became the focus, even though it wasn’t required, makes it hard to ignore the sense of different standards being applied here,” Bishara remarked. He added that this delay undermines the efforts made thus far and does not align with the values of the community.

The Trust Board intends to evaluate all available options under the Waikato River Act 2010 following the council’s decision. They expressed gratitude to the over 100 Tūwharetoa whānau members who supported the agreement through submissions and attendance at the council meeting.

The Trust Board reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Taupō Moana, stating, “No matter what, Ngāti Tūwharetoa are kaitiaki of Taupō Moana, and we will continue to protect our taonga, āke ake ake.”

The deferral of this agreement reflects a significant moment in local governance and indigenous collaboration in New Zealand. As the community awaits the new council’s approach, the future of Lake Taupō’s water management hangs in the balance.