Westland District Council operates four wastewater treatment systems in the District: Hokitika, Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and Haast.

The Hokitika WWTP currently discharges to the Tasman Sea.  This plant is undergoing a feasibility design review for an upgrade which will see a new mechanical treatment plant constructed in a new location.  The new Franz Josef WWTP (pond system with mechanical screening, aeration and dispersal fields to ground) was commissioned and operational in March 2020.

The Fox Glacier WWTP is a two pond oxidation system with discharge to the river. This WWTP  is currently undergoing going an upgrade.  The Haast WWTP is a single pond oxidation system with sub-surface discharge to the river bed.

The Group Manager: District Assets is responsible for the improvements and operation of Councils wastewater supplies. Operational and maintenance activities are carried out by Councils utilities maintenance contractor.”

Westland District Council operates eight water treatment plants throughout the district (Kumara, Hokitika, Ross, Harihari, Whataroa, Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and Haast), with a ninth plant currently under construction (Arahura). 

The treatment processes vary from membrane treatment to cartridge filtration, UV disinfection and chlorination.  All treatment plants, generally comply with bacterial compliance and work is underway to meet the protozoal compliance with the Drinking Water Standards NZ 2005 (Revised 2018).

The Group Manager: District Assets is responsible for the improvements and operation of Councils water supplies. Operational and maintenance activities are carried out by Council's utilities maintenance contractor.

Stormwater reticulation services various communities throughout the Westland District.

The only township serviced by a significant reticulation scheme is Hokitika. The Hokitika reticulation is assisted by six pump stations with one more being developed (Livingstone St).  The Tancred St pump station has recently undergone an upgrade to increase capacity and reduce surface flooding issues within the CBD.

Minor reticulation schemes are operated and maintained in the following townships for the disposal of surface water from the road:

• Kumara
• Kaniere
• Ross
• Harihari
• Whataroa
• Okarito
• Franz Josef/Waiau
• Fox Glacier
• Haast.