I am writing this petition with a sense of urgency and frustration, as the recent surge in water bills in Wellington is crippling for many of us, including my family members who are struggling financially. We have reached a point where we're choosing between essential needs, such as putting food on the table or simply being able to pay for basic utilities like water – a fundamental necessity for life.

Wellington's water billing system has seen a dramatic escalation over the past year, with many households experiencing a surge as high as 50% in their monthly bills. According to recent data from Statistics New Zealand, the average household water bill has increased from $90 to $135 a month, representing an unsustainable financial burden for low-income families. While water services are indeed crucial, the current pricing model is disproportionate and unfairly impacts our community's most vulnerable.

What is even more concerning are the unexplained surcharges and fees labeled under ‘maintenance costs’ and 'meter readings' which lack transparency and accountability, making it impossible for residents to manage their water usage effectively. These unjust costs are not only exorbitant but unjustifiable, especially when compared to parallel communities where average water costs are significantly lower.

The public deserves fairness and clarity. Therefore, I'm calling on our local government and the Wellington Water Authority to review and reform the existing billing policies. We need an inclusive public consultation process allowing residents to voice their concerns, alongside a comprehensive examination of all charges included in water bills. Concrete steps must be taken to ensure that water services are affordable to everyone, including instituting a cap on yearly increases tied to inflation rates and ensuring any necessary rate hikes are widely communicated and justified.

Environmental conservation measures like rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling must be promoted to alleviate excessive costs while also safeguarding our precious natural resource. Providing incentives for households who adopt water-saving measures would not only lower water bills but also create a more sustainable community.

Please join me in taking a stand against this unjust practice. By signing this petition, you are adding your voice to a growing call for transparency, fairness, and compassion in our water billing system. Let's urge our local leaders to take swift action to protect the rights and financial stability of Wellington's residents.