Selwyn Water recognises that effective water services delivery in the Selwyn district depends on strong, enduring partnerships with mana whenua.
Water is taonga, and our responsibilities as a water services provider extend beyond infrastructure and regulatory compliance to include stewardship, partnership, and respect for the cultural values of wai (water).
Selwyn district sits within the takiwā (territory) of Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki and Ngāi Tūāhuriri. The two hapū (subtribes) jointly hold mana whenua status in the takiwā. Te Taumutu Rūnanga and Te Ngāi Tūāhuriri Rūnanga, act on behalf of the hapū.
As a newly established organisation, Selwyn Water is building on the relationships, commitments, and agreements developed by Selwyn District Council, carrying these forward as a foundation for our approach.
During this establishment phase, our focus is on maintaining continuity, building trust, and laying the groundwork for deeper, more structured partnerships over time. We recognise that meaningful partnership is ongoing, evolving, and central to the long-term stewardship of water.
Our approach aligns with the Waiora One Water Strategy, a shared strategic framework agreed between rūnanga and Selwyn District Council.
This Strategy reflects a collective commitment to uphold the mana and mauri of all water and recognises that water is a connected system, from the mountains to the sea. It supports integrated planning across land, water, infrastructure, and communities.
This responsibility shapes how Selwyn Water will plan and make decisions. It means we focus on:
- Protecting waterways and groundwater
- Reducing environmental harm from wastewater systems
- Planning infrastructure with long-term stewardship in mind
- Working collaboratively with mana whenua, Selwyn District Council, and our communities
As Selwyn Water establishes itself as a standalone water services provider, we carry forward this partnership-led framework. The Waiora One Water Strategy informs how we consider stewardship, shared responsibility, and long-term outcomes, alongside technical, financial, and regulatory decisions.
Waiora One Water Strategy
Mā te tokomaha, ka ora ai te wai, te taiao, te takata.
By the work of many will the health of the water be restored, the environment flourish and the people thrive.