A new identity for an essential service
As Manawatū Water continues to take shape as Council's dedicated in-house water services business unit, a new visual identity has been introduced to reflect its role and future direction.
Bringing together the people, expertise and infrastructure responsible for delivering drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services across the district, Manawatū Water remains proudly part of Manawatū District Council. While the name and look are new, the commitment remains unchanged: delivering safe, reliable and sustainable water services for the Manawatū District.
The establishment of Manawatū Water follows Council's consultation with the community on the future delivery of water services, where residents expressed strong support for retaining local ownership and control through an in-house model. The new identity is another step in delivering on that commitment.
Manawatū Water Chair Colin McFadzean said the new identity reflects the growing importance of water services and the specialist expertise behind them.
"This isn't about changing who delivers our water services. It's about giving greater visibility to the dedicated team behind them. The new identity reflects the importance of the work they do every day while maintaining the close connection with Manawatū District Council."
Rather than creating a separate website, Manawatū Water has been designed to work alongside the Manawatū District Council brand. Residents will continue to access information through the familiar mdc.govt.nz website, where dedicated Manawatū Water pages now feature the new visual identity.
General Manager Infrastructure Hamish Waugh said the new identity represents more than a visual refresh.
"People shouldn't have to work out which organisation they need to contact. Keeping Manawatū Water within the Council website makes it simple for customers, while the dedicated branding helps people easily recognise information relating to water services."
Designed entirely by Council's in-house Communications and Engagement team, the identity was developed from concept through to completion, including the logo, website integration and supporting materials. Delivering the project internally not only showcases the capability within the organisation but also ensured value for ratepayers.
Over time, residents will begin seeing the Manawatū Water identity across projects, publications, community engagement, and other water-related communications, providing a consistent and recognisable presence while continuing to sit alongside the Manawatū District Council brand.
