If you’ve ever spotted a stormwater pipe, manhole or small waterway running through your backyard and wondered who looks after it, the answer is Auckland Council. And from now on, there’ll be clearer communication when council needs to access those assets on private property.
New government legislation, the Local Government Water Services Act 2025, has changed how councils notify property owners about stormwater and wastewater works. The law, introduced late last year, replaces several older acts and sets new requirements for how statutory notices are issued.
Because many stormwater and wastewater assets, including pipes, culverts and manholes, sit on private land, Auckland Council is now required to formally notify property owners and occupants before carrying out inspections, maintenance or new construction work.
Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters Network Solutions Team Manager Shaun McAuley says the change is all about giving people more information and more certainty.
“Property owners and occupiers will receive clear notice about what work is planned, where it will take place, when contractors are expected to visit and how long they’ll be on site,” he says. “They’ll also have the option to request changes to dates and times.
“For new construction works, owners are asked to provide consent for access. While if the work is urgent, council is legally allowed to enter your property without prior permission but we will try and let you know before we enter.”
The new rules also mean councils and developers must plan land access well ahead of time, often three to six months in advance, helping to avoid last-minute disruptions.
Ultimately, the changes are designed to make essential stormwater and wastewater work more transparent, predictable and respectful of people’s properties – while ensuring Auckland’s water networks continue to function safely and effectively.
For more information visit the Auckland Council website.