West Auckland water treatment plant opponents have backing of Paula Bennett

Protest signs outside Oratia properties, which will be affected by the proposed Watercare development. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Opponents of a proposed water treatment plant in west Auckland now have the backing of Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett.

Council-owned water company Watercare is considering taking over 12 to 18 properties in Oratia to build a replacement to the 90-year-old Huia plant.

Bennett, who has lived in Oratia for the past eight years, opposed the plan at a public meeting last night.

She's not allowed to interfere in Watercare's decision but said she'll be watching to make sure proper processes are followed.

Bennett said the proposal won't just affect a few people; it would be a blow to the whole community.

Watercare said community opposition would be seriously considered when the board discussed the issue next month.

Over 1000 people to the Save Oratia meeting. Community feels really strongly that people's homes shouldn't be taken for Huia WTP replacement pic.twitter.com/e7mLjylhif

— Paula Bennett (@paulabennettmp) April 9, 2017

- Newstalk ZB