Water New Zealand is the country’s largest water industry body, bringing together over 3,000 professionals across local government, industry, consulting, research and supply. We provide leadership through collaboration, professional development and networking, and support the sustainable management of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater, promoting best practice and protecting the health of Aotearoa New Zealand’s water environment.
What we do
Water New Zealand is where the sector comes together to learn, share and lead.
Our work includes:
- Events and conferences – including the annual Water New Zealand Conference & Expo and specialist events like the Stormwater Conference & Expo and Modelling Symposium
- Training and capability building – from short courses to online learning supporting workforce development across the sector
- Advocacy and insights – contributing to national conversations and supporting decision making
- Resources and research – technical guidance, industry standards and sector insights
Subgroups and special interest groups
Many members choose to get more involved through Water New Zealand’s subgroups and special interest groups; connecting with peers, sharing knowledge, and helping shape best practice across the sector.
Subgroups
- Water Utilities Association
Brings together senior leaders from local authorities and industry to discuss key policy issues and provide advice to the Water New Zealand Board. - Water Services Managers’ Group (WSMG)
A network of territorial local authorities (and their agents) responsible for managing water supply, wastewater and stormwater systems across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Special interest groups
Our special interest groups connect professionals working across specific areas of the sector:
- Backflow
A leading hub for backflow expertise representing all aspects of the industry. - Climate Change
Focuses on the intersection of water and climate, supporting low-emissions and climate-resilient approaches across the sector. - Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Champions a more inclusive and representative water sector, supporting connection, awareness and meaningful change. - Drinking Water Quality
Supports best practice in drinking water safety, regulation and quality management. - Modelling
Promotes excellence in water modelling through knowledge sharing, training and industry guidance. - Onsite Wastewater Management Systems (OWMS)
Covers domestic and small community wastewater solutions, including natural systems such as wetlands and land treatment. - Smart Water Infrastructure (SWIG)
Focuses on digital innovation, including smart metering, IoT and data-driven approaches to water management. - Stormwater
Provides a forum for urban stormwater management, supporting collaboration and best practice across Aotearoa. - Te Ama | Aukaha te Wai
Centres Māori perspectives and mātauranga Māori in water management and sector development. - Water Efficiency & Conservation Action Network (WECAN)
Leads collaboration on water efficiency, supporting tools and practices to improve water use across the sector. - Wastewater
Focuses on wastewater treatment, operations and innovation, supporting improved environmental outcomes. - Young Water Professionals (YWP)
A national network for members under 35, supporting career development, connection and participation in the sector.
Whether you’re starting out or leading major infrastructure programmes, Water New Zealand is your water community.
Membership
Water New Zealand offers a number of different types of membership including corporate, individual, student/recent graduate as well as retired membership for individuals that have previously held full financial membership.
