Green loan secured for water meter rollout

We’re grateful to have received loan funding from the New Zealand Local Government Funding Agency (LGFA) to support our Universal Water Metering project, with installation of water meters across the district expected to be complete by July 2026.

The funding has been approved through LGFA’s Green and Social Loan programme, with our council being the first in New Zealand to receive a sustainable water loan under this category.

The loan supports projects that deliver clear environmental and community benefits, including improved water efficiency and fairness.

Chief Executive Sven Hanne says the funding recognises the progress council has already made and the long-term value of the project.

“Universal water metering is about being smarter and fairer with one of our most important resources,” says Sven. “This funding supports the final stages of a project that will see 100% of residential properties in the Stratford district metered, helping us better manage demand, identify leaks earlier and reduce unnecessary water loss.” Installation work has been underway across the district since 2024, starting with the replacement of old manifolds (tobies) and progressing to digital meter installations.

The metering programme builds on successful installations already completed in Midhirst and Toko, where early leak detection has resulted in significant water savings.

Once fully operational, this metering system will provide real-time data that improves network efficiency, supports environmental outcomes and helps Council implement a more equitable user-pays approach to water charges in the future.

“Our communities rely on a secure and sustainable water supply, and this project puts Stratford in a strong position as we move forward with our water services delivery plans,” says Sven.