Manapōuri's new $3.6 million water treatment plant was officially opened today (27 Jun) by Southland District Council Mayor Rob Scott.

The new plant, featuring filtration and pH correction, back-up generator and larger pumps - for firefighting capacity, replaces the previous one built in 1969.

Mayor Scott said it was always a proud moment when projects of this calibre come to fruition.

It also reinforced Council’s decision that opting for the adjusted status quo model in Local Water Done Well - retained full responsibility and control for water services while adapting to legislative changes and evolving Southland communities - was the right one, he said.

"This [project] showcases we are very capable of delivering infrastructure and water services to Southlanders,” he said.

“The ability of the locals to have direct input into what’s happening in their own backyard and working in collaboration with Council is incredibly important and we’ve proven in the Fiordland area through projects like this it is a priority for us."

“While managed by Council, these assets are owned by the communities they serve and, together with the Fiordland Community Board, the residents of Manapōuri should be proud of what’s been achieved. We are building for the future.”

Lead contractor Fulton Hogan, together with Murray Wallace Electrical, started construction of the upgraded asset in 2024, with the plant commissioned as fully operational in March.

Space has been set aside to accommodate town growth and further water quality enhancements if required in the future.