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2025 WIOA NZ Tour

  • August 04, 2025

In May 2025, WIOA proudly led a group of 11 some of our finest Australian water operators on a study tour of New Zealand’s South Island. All participants were previous WIOA award winners, recognised for their exceptional paper presentations or for being awarded the prestigious Operator of the Year or Young Operator of the Year awards.

Representing WIOA on the tour were Jean Calderon and Kate Russell, supporting our award recipients on what proved to be an inspiring and unforgettable week. The tour was led on the WIOG side by Dion Glenie, who kindly volunteered his time to drive everyone across the South Island, sharing his local NZ knowledge along the way.
The tour officially commenced on the 25th of May in Christchurch, where the group hit the ground running with a technical tour of the Pines Wastewater Treatment Plant in Rolleston. From there, the journey continued along the West Coast with insightful site visits to the Punakaiki Water Plant and Westport Waterworks, giving participants a unique look at how water and wastewater operations are managed across diverse regional environments.
 
On the 27th of May, the group arrived in Nelson just in time to attend the WIOG Chairman’s Dinner at the Tides Hotel. A highlight of the evening was witnessing Dion Glenie, a familiar face in both WIOA and WIOG circles, being honoured as an IDIOT (Inducted as Delegates of the Inextricably Obstructed Tap Society); an esteemed recognition reserved for those who have made a significant contribution to the Association.
The 2025 tour was an unforgettable experience. The many laughs, presentations and the professionalism shown by great leaders in our industry gave amazing insight into achieving big things behind the scenes to help and deliver the best to our community. Heading to a completely new environment, meeting operators around the country, and sharing experiences helped us build new connections that will last a lifetime. Mentors involved in the tour showing us 110% to better our knowledge and continuing to share many experiences to help improve our learning within the industry was something we all cherished and took back to our states. Lastly, to all the managers and leaders, thank you for the many opportunities given throughout the tour; it's certainly been a highlight of the tour so far.
Chris KahatapitikankanamalageWater Services Operator, TasWater
The New Zealand learning tour was a brilliant blend of professional development and unforgettable camaraderia. From cutting edge treatment plants to community driven water initiatives, we soaked up innovation at every stop. Dion's bus driving finesse kept us on track, while the Queenslanders kept spirits high and hydration levels questionable with their legendary thirst. The Tasmanian's were as persistent as they were passionate, proving once again that good natured banter is a key ingredient in any successful tour. We returned with fresh ideas, stronger connections, and a renewed drive to elevate our industry back home
David CashOperations Supervisor Water Sewer Services, Richmond Valley Council
The NZ Tour was an absolute pleasure to be a part of. I was blown away by the WIOG Conference; the quality of the presentations, the calibre of speakers, and the seamless organisation of the event from the WIOG team were incredibly impressive. It was such a privilege to be part of a tour group made up of operators from right across Australia. It was clear from the moment everyone got out of the airport and into the tour bus that we were all in good company and were in for a high-energy week. By the end of the week it was clear that some strong bonds had been formed. While the professional development was such a brilliant and unique experience, the sight seeing along the way, expertly led by Dion, added so much value to the experience. There were plenty of memories made along the way, a few laughs watching the Queenslanders adjust to the temperature, and I came home feeling inspired, connected and incredibly grateful to be a part of this community.
Jean CalderonEvents Manager, WIOA
It was a real source of pride to finally meet our New Zealand partners from the Water Industry Operations Group in person at their 2025 conference, held at the Trafalgar Centre in Nelson. Their passion for the industry truly mirrors our own, and it was a proud reminder of the strong connections we share across the Tasman. The dedication and teamwork that goes into organising their annual conference did not go unnoticed—I have great admiration for these committed individuals who come together to deliver such a valuable event for the water operations sector. After years of connecting through photos, awards, and writing content for EDMs and socials, I was also able to meet several of our own Australian state award winners face to face. Their warm welcome was genuinely appreciated. We really do have such humble, hardworking water operations professionals in Australia. My passion for this industry continues to grow, as I advocate for the people behind the processes who work every day to protect and deliver Australian water quality.
Kate RussellMarketing and Local Events Lead, WIOA
The following two days were spent immersed in the WIOG Conference, which offered a packed schedule of technical papers, discussions, and networking opportunities including two fantastic dinners, and even some karaoke. 
Beyond the formal program, the study tour proved to be a very fun opportunity for our award winners to bond, share experiences and ideas, and strengthen their networks across the industry. The camaraderie and energy within the group was evident immediately, and the group chat is still popping off with updates several months later.
 
We are incredibly proud of everyone who took part and extend our heartfelt thanks to WIOG for their hospitality and collaboration. Delegates were able to exchange knowledge with Kiwi counterparts, gaining valuable insights and forming meaningful professional connections. The 2025 study tour was a valuable experience for all involved, and we can’t wait to see where next year takes us.

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