Residents Invited to Share Their Views on Government Bills Advancing Three Waters Reform

The two Government bills on three waters reform are out now and the Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger has urged residents to have their say on these bills that propose changes to how water services are provided.

The two bills- The Water Services Legislation Bill and Water Services Economic Efficiency and Consumer Protection Bill are now out for public consultation. 

The Government announced the Three Waters Reform Programme in July 2020 following mounting evidence of challenges relating to delivering three water services in New Zealand. This list includes factors such as old infrastructure, lack of past investment, the need to renew consent for wastewater treatment facilities, pollution of source water, increased consumer demands, the need for resilience to climate change and natural hazards, changes in population demographics, and substantial expenses on the horizon.

The Water Services Legislation Bill

Among the provisions of the Water Services Legislation Bill are what the new water services entities will be required to do, their regulatory powers, the tools they'll use, and the transition arrangements.

Traditionally Local Councils have provided three water services. Proposed reforms will see this responsibility move to four new government entities.

The Water Services Economic Efficiency and Consumer Protection Bill

The Water Services Economic Efficiency and Consumer Protection Bill introduces the economic regulation and consumer protection measures for three waters. The Bill designates the Commerce Commission as the four new water services businesses' economic and consumer protection regulator.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger says, "These two bills are the next stage in a complete overhaul of the way that water services in this country are delivered." 

"We know significant investment is needed to bring New Zealand's water infrastructure up-to-scratch but we have major concerns about the Government's approach.

"At every opportunity so far we've given the Government strong feedback and I have even suggested alternative options that I believe would lead to a more positive way forward."

"Despite this, the Government is progressing with a model that we have substantial concerns about. However, we will continue to work with the National Transition Unit to make this work as best we can for the citizens of the City."

"Christchurch City Council will be putting in submissions on both bills focusing on our key concerns, but it is important that the voices of our communities are also heard this time."

"Now is the time for as many people and groups as possible to share their views on the three waters reforms by making submissions before public consultation closes on 12 February," the Mayor says.

Submissions on the Water Services Legislation Bill and Water Services Economic Efficiency and Consumer Protection Bill can be made online through Parliament's website.

The closing date for submissions is Sunday, 12 February 2023. 

The Council's submission will be discussed at the 15 February meeting according to Mayor Mauger.