FAQs

The existing Longwood Water Race Bylaw 1936 has expired.  

Council believes a modern, fit-for-purpose bylaw is needed to help protect the network, clarify responsibilities, manage damage and unauthorised works, and ensure the race can continue operating effectively into the future.  

Council's preferred option includes enforceable rules that can be used where activities damage, obstruct, contaminate or interfere with the operation of the water races. 

In most situations Council's approach will focus on education, communication and resolving issues collaboratively. Enforcement tools are intended to address situations where significant risks, damage or non-compliance occur. Relevant enforcement powers are provided under the Local Government Act 2002.  

Council currently carries out maintenance and operational activities on the public sections of the water race networks and at the Tauwharenīkau River intakes. This includes: 

• Restoring water flow where issues occur 
• Clearing races and removing blockages 
• Removing sediment build-up 
• Inspecting infrastructure and network assets 
• Managing access arrangements across private land where required for public safety purposes 

These activities help ensure water continues to flow safely, reliably, and efficiently throughout the network. Maintenance work is delivered by Council's contracted service provider, with oversight from Council's Infrastructure and Community Operations team.  

Note: Council's maintenance responsibilities are primarily limited to the public sections of the water race network.  

Landowners whose properties contain or adjoin a water race within 5 metres play an important role in helping protect the network. They remain responsible for maintaining private races, structures, and infrastructure located on their own property.  Practical guidance in the existing code of practice remain in effect, whilst this is being reviewed you can keep informed on our website, and you can also find guidance from GWRC online here: Greater Wellington — Water races

Yes. A bylaw does not replace those requirements under regional rules or resource consents.  

Anyone considering works that affect a water race, river intake, culvert, crossing, drainage feature or adjacent waterway should seek advice before commencing work.  

More information can be found on the GWRC website here Greater Wellington — Water races. 

Yes. You may be eligible for funding support through Greater Wellington Regional Council’s grant scheme for wetland protection which offer up to 50% of the cost for advice, fencing removing pest plants or reintroducing natives. Further information and guidance can be found online at Greater Wellington — Wetland restoration funding and support 

The water race itself does not hold national historic designation from Heritage New Zealand. 

However, it carries significant cultural, ecological and historical value, through it’s connection to Longwood Homestead Estate as it was engineered in the 19030’s to transform dry pastureland around Featherston into viable dairy and livestock farms. 

Council is proposing a range of engagement opportunities throughout the consultation period, including; Drop-in session, online information and submissions, and the opportunity to speak at our hearings. 

The proposed Longwood Water Race Bylaw and the Code of Practice are separate documents that serve different functions. The bylaw will establish the regulatory framework for the management of the water race network, while the Code of Practice will provide guidance on its day-to-day operation and administration.