Utilities are an essential part of modern life. We build relationships with individuals and community groups across New Zealand so that everyone in Aotearoa knows we are here to help them resolve utilities disputes.
Some of the things we can offer communities are:
- Speaking at community meetings about what we offer.
- Expert advice for the issues you might face as an individual, or as a business.
- Opening communication channels between consumers and providers to more effectively resolve disputes.
- Promoting accessibility. We use Interpreting NZ interpreters and the Relay service for the hearing impaired.
- Sharing expertise. Our staff are trained mediators who investigate what happened and facilitate resolution using various techniques, including conciliation conferences. We use independent technical and legal experts when necessary.
We all have the potential to make a difference to an individual, an organisation, a community. UDL resolves disputes about electricity, gas, water, telecommunications, and broadband installation on shared property.
If you would like to know more or have UDL come and talk with you and your community, please get in touch by email with Jessica or UDL or you can call Jessica on 021 0817 3040 or leave a message on 0800 22 33 40 to discuss ways we can support your community and specifically resolve conflict on utility issues.
Jessica Niemack, Āpiha Rauhī Hapori
2026 Quarterly Updates
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From April to June, Utilities Disputes continued connecting with communities across Aotearoa. Highlights included Jessica’s community panel at our 2026 Annual Forum, discussing how we can use our connections to resolve issues and complaints. Jessica also joined communities at Kwibuka 32, the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and took part in Multicultural New Zealand’s Community-led Social Cohesion hui – both events creating valuable opportunities to listen, learn, and share how we can support consumers.
Kwibuka 32
Multicultural New Zealand’s Community-led Social Cohesion Hui
In Wellington, Felicity and George - alongside Bonnie the pug - represented Utilities Disputes at the Victoria University of Wellington Students’ Association Flatting Expo, engaging with students and sharing information about our services. June continued with more community connection, with Utilities Disputes delighted to be part of a Failoa Famili event supporting Pasifika families and communities across Auckland, Wellington, Hawke’s Bay and Christchurch.
Flatting Expo
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Community connection has been a key focus as we began 2026, with FunFest our main event engagement in January. Jessica and Adam from Utilities Disputes hosted a stall from 14–18 January, meeting people from across the community, strengthening relationships, and having practical conversations about utility issues and how we can help.
FunFest
Over February and March, Jessica continued connecting with communities across Aotearoa through a range of events. Jessica and Willow joined Waitangi Day celebrations, taking time to learn, listen, and engage with the many people and organisations represented. Jessica also attended the CAB Pakuranga “Meet the Community Organisations Working in Your Area” event, represented Utilities Disputes at the Little Green Expo in Pukekohe for the third year, and spoke at the ACOFI International Women’s Day celebration, recognising the strength and contributions of women across diverse communities.
Waitangi Day 2026
Little Green Expo
2025 Quarterly Updates
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From October to December, our community engagement mahi continued across Aotearoa. Highlights included hosting a stall at the Wellington Age Concern event at St James Theatre, meeting with Te Ahi Kaa in Pukekohe to better understand their community and how we can support them and taking part in the National Māori Energy Summit in New Plymouth – a valuable opportunity for learning, engagement and connection.
National Māori Energy Summit
In November, Jessica was back out in the community reconnecting with collaborators working towards better futures for whānau. Highlights included the Review of Retirement Income Policies launch in Auckland and The Asian Network Incorporated regional community networking hui in Western Springs. Jessica also attended community support events including Accelerating Aotearoa in Ōtara, which offered free health check-ups and access to essential utility information, and The Pride Project’s weekly community kai in Clendon.
Review of Retirement Income Policies Launch
December rounded out the year with more local connection and celebration. Jessica joined kaumātua from Papakura Marae to road test Utilities Disputes aprons, which passed the test – thank you to Kaha Wahine Kotahitanga. She also celebrated the festive season with the Manurewa Seniors Network at their Christmas dinner. We look forward to continuing these relationships and supporting our communities in the new year.
Papakura Marae