Key Considerations for Waimakariri

We understand the importance of exploring alternatives to make sure three waters services are delivered in the best way possible, which is why we took part in the first stage of the reform.

Local Government changes The Government is undertaking Three Waters Reforms ahead of, and in isolation of, the Resource Management Act (RMA) Reform and the Future for Local Government Review.

There is an opportunity for the Government to coordinate these proposals given they are interrelated and will have an intergenerational impact.

Ratepayer equity Over the last 20 years we’ve invested over $100m in water infrastructure and it is of a very high standard. The Government’s current proposal doesn’t consider compensation for three waters in areas where there has been appropriate investment.

Efficiencies There would be some efficiencies from economies of scale, but the evidence provided by the Government regarding the level of efficiencies the new entities will achieve is limited.

Councils have already incorporated a number of improvements that would lead to efficiency gains, and New Zealand’s geography and population density would limit the benefits expected - which have been based on overseas models.

Cost We have recently released our Long Term Plan, which models our projection of rates to 2051. Three waters rates are proposed on average to decrease moderately over time, when inflation is excluded.

Our projections do not support those figures being proposed by the Government. We have laid out the difference in these projections on the following page.

Given the data we’ve seen so far, we’re not convinced the proposed entity could provide three waters services to Waimakariri residents at a lower rate than what we currently offer.

Growth Waimakariri District is a high growth area. Our Council has a good record of matching servicing and infrastructure delivery with zoning land for development, as well as coordination with roading, green spaces and three waters services.

Having a separate three waters entity may lead to a lack of coordination and funding prioritisation. We have benefited from growth allowing costs to be spread over a larger number of ratepayers, to ensure rates remain as affordable as possible.

Connection with the local community Currently, ratepayers have a direct link through elected members who are available to hear community views. The proposed reform could result in less connection to local decision makers and mean our community has less of a say in how three waters services are provided.

Responding to natural hazards As recent weather events have shown, our District can be prone to flooding. Our Council has a solid track record of preparing for and quickly responding to these events to minimise the impact on our community.

A large entity could lack the proximity and agility to respond quickly to local issues during such events.

Timing The eight week timeframe for the councils to make an informed decision on such a significant change is very short. It is difficult to give this important issue the level of scrutiny, analysis, and engagement with the community that it deserves.

What we are presenting is the best information we currently know.