'3 waters', three problems: cost, timetable and Auckland

'3 waters', three problems: cost, timetable and Auckland
A huge catch-up is required for the country's water infrastructure (Source: Getty Images)
Pattrick Smellie
Both the cost and timing on the government’s ‘three waters’ reform plan are blowing out, with total costs now estimated to be as high as $185 billion over the next 30 years and no sign of cabinet decisions on proposed amalgamation of the country’s 67 water entities.The new figures, released today, also drew the strongest indication yet that Auckland Council may not go along with the proposals, creating the potential for other councils to walk away from the process.The latest cost estimate is included in a swag of new ana...

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