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.
