‘Implausible outcomes’ in govt advice on three waters reform

‘Implausible outcomes’ in govt advice on three waters reform
Pattrick Smellie
Analysis by the Scottish water regulator the government is relying on for advice on reforming local councils water services has produced implausible results, says economic consultancy Castalia.It says the Water Industry Commission of Scotland, which is the primary source of strategic advice to Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta’s ‘three waters’ reform, has over-estimated the savings to be made from amalgamation proposals.Those proposals, covering drinking, waste and storm water – the so-called ‘3 waters’...

More Policy

RBNZ and the curious case of prudential stacks
Opinion

Andy Macdonald: RBNZ and the curious case of prudential stacks

The end result of the RBNZ’s capital review will be both revealing and fascinating.

Andy Macdonald 21 Oct 2025
Asset recycling: privatisation or better housekeeping
Policy

Asset recycling: privatisation or better housekeeping

On asset recycling, Silvana Schenone cites Marie Kondo rather than Milton Friedman.

Dileepa Fonseka 20 Oct 2025
Open banking's red tape may stifle lenders' innovation: fintechs
Policy

Open banking's red tape may stifle lenders' innovation: fintechs

Fee-free open banking and levies may deter banks from innovating with new tech.

Andy Macdonald 17 Oct 2025
Government to set up single science funding body
Policy

Government to set up single science funding body

Research Funding NZ will replace at least three existing funding bodies.

Staff reporters 14 Oct 2025