The Government unveiled its proposed water reforms last month whereby four multi-region water providers would take control of New Zealand’s wastewater, stormwater, and drinking water systems, ending the roles of nearly 70 councils. And the support package was designed to make sure no council was worse off despite the change to their asset base. But she said the reforms offered an opportunity for Government and local councils to work together to ensure the reforms were fit for purpose. "We are working with the sector to ensure everyone understands the reform-related information, and to explain the policy proposals, the benefits of reform, and the details of the support package. “All of our water assets will be retained in local ownership; that has been a bottom line for us."

Source: Otago Daily Times July 15, 2021 00:02 UTC