Water Efficiency Plan 2021-2025
In August 2022, we brought 37 Aucklanders together to participate in the first-ever citizens' assembly tasked with deciding the long-term future of Auckland's water supply. To help them make an informed decision and reach a clear consensus, the group had access to independent experts. Of course, there was plenty of time for questions and deliberation before presenting their formal recommendation in October. So, what did they make of the experience? We caught up with three of the group to find out.
What made you decide to put your hand up and volunteer?
I was interested in the opportunity to have my say. Of course, living in a democracy, we have some say in what happens to our city and country, but it is rare that you get the chance as a regular citizen to have a direct impact on the future of your city.
How did participating in the citizens' assembly change your thinking or attitudes towards Auckland’s water and wastewater network?
It gave me a lot of new knowledge and information that I didn’t have before and made me more interested in the whole process. Because water is something that you use so frequently every day, it’s not something you always consider too deeply. I am definitely becoming more conscious and aware of the water I use. It also taught me that there is a lot of work and future planning that goes into providing water for a city - you can’t rely on weather and a constant supply of rain. it’s important to future proof cities with systems that are diversified and failproof.
What’s one thing people could do to help reduce their water usage? Do you have any water saving tips that you wish to pass on?
There’s all the classic water saving tips such as limiting shower time ensuring tap is off while brushing your teeth. But, another great water saving tip is to use grey water to wash things like driveways and to water your lawns.
Tell me about your experience - what did you think of the overall process?
It was an eye-opener. The speakers were excellent, and I appreciated that they took the time to explain their thinking, give further insights and answer our questions.
How did participating in the citizens' assembly change your thinking, attitude or consumption habits towards Auckland's water and wastewater network?
For me, it was a rare opportunity to talk to and gain insight from the experts.
What do your friends and whānau think about your participation in the citizens' assembly? Are you now encouraging more of your friends to save water?
Everyone was so happy and supportive of my participation. It would be nice to have more programmes like this in future.
What made you decide to put your hand up to volunteer?
We, for me, I wanted to be part of the discussion in helping to safeguard Auckland's water supply, so we don't end up in drought as we did two years ago. Plus, I have a real appetite for listening to and learning from people's ideas.
Tell me about your experience - what did you think of the overall process?
It was fantastic! I've done numerous surveys and been part of numerous discussion groups over the years, and this was one the best. What stood out to me about the process was conducted – it was all very professional – yet you still felt relaxed and at ease.
How did participating in the citizens' assembly change your thinking, attitude or water consumption habits?
It brought to my attention how easy it is to take water for granted as well as waste it. What fascinated me the most were the discussions around water, such as ownership and the lifecycle water goes through.
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