Back in June 2025, following public consultation the Council made changes to the annual water allocation and excess water charges.
This was part of reducing the overall rates increase for the year and moving to a more user pays approach.
The changes lowered the excess water use threshold, to 500m3 per annum and increased the excess water use charge to $2.30 including GST. The current data suggests that 6% of properties could be over 500m3.
In addition, Council proposed quarterly invoicing i.e. at 30 September, 31 December, 31 March and 30 June.
What does that mean?
The September invoices are currently being prepared and will be sent out shortly, to every property with a water meter. Council is currently rolling out meters in Twizel, Tekapo and Fairlie.
Properties will not incur excess water use charges until the annual allocation of 500m3 is reached.
For most residential properties the September water invoice will a $0 amount because the usage will not have reached the threshold of 500 m3.
However, water usage readings will be included so that customers can monitor their water usage.
Information on how to read your meter will be included with your invoice. It is also available from council’s website at www.mackenzie.govt.nz > services > water > water-meters.