Unemployment statistics in a rural Bay of Plenty township look set to change with the introduction of water bottling plants.

An agreement to lease land at Murupara near Rotorua has been reached which could see two plants built.

It's an agreement between local iwi Ngati Manawa, partner company Murupara No 1, New Zealand Aquifer and a foreign investor.

Murupara No 1 Chief Executive Roydon Hartnett said there is many benefits for locals.

"In lieu of a water tax, because this was designed before the election, a $4 million per annum to the community to do training, housing and health."

It's thought the bottling deal could be the answer to solving many problems in the area.

Hartnett said the township is like other parts of the country, struggling with excessive drug use and lack of employment.

He said a solution is available but it needs to be a joint effort.

"For it to work, we need the iwi, we need the community, we need a company, we need the Government, all to be working together. And in this case, we can offer a solution to a very obvious problem."

The deal will see hundreds of millions pumped into the local economy and at least 250 new jobs.