Have your say on proposed national wastewater standards for odour and metals

The Water Services Authority - Taumata Arowa has begun consulting on two further national environmental performance wastewater standards addressing odour and metals discharged to water.

The proposed two standards add to the four wastewater standards passed into law in December 2025. These apply to public wastewater networks which serve just over 4 million people in New Zealand and are primarily owned and operated by local councils.

Over time, national wastewater standards are expected to significantly improve wastewater performance and deliver future cost efficiencies.

Around 60% of council-owned wastewater treatment plants need to be reconsented in the next decade. The standards set clear performance expectations for councils as they plan for, fund and obtain consents for the necessary infrastructure upgrades.

Consultation is open now and runs until 5pm on 22 October 2026.