Four three waters entities to become 10 as reform options emerge

Four three waters entities to become 10 as reform options emerge
When flooding overwhelmed Auckland's stormwater system, drinking water was also cut off for some. (Image: Getty)
Pattrick Smellie
The government looks ready to abandon the forced amalgamation of the country’s local council-owned water services into four “mega-entities” in favour of 10 such groupings.A 10-entity solution is emerging as the preferred policy alternative in a move intended to placate local government opponents of the scheme while leaving other contentious elements of the policy in place.Multiple sources have told BusinessDesk this is the primary recommendation that will go to cabinet for decisions in coming weeks.However, other changes sough...

More Policy

EPA head quits with fast-track changes
Policy

EPA head quits with fast-track changes

The latest fast-track reforms go far beyond supermarket resource consenting.

DoC admits error: no decisions yet on stewardship land
Policy

DoC admits error: no decisions yet on stewardship land

The annual report mistake says announcements were made ... they weren't.

Leaky buildings tribunal to wind up
Policy

Leaky buildings tribunal to wind up

Time called on tribunal, the problems remain.

Ian Llewellyn 04 Nov 2025
Less than 10% of Provincial Growth Fund loans repaid
Primary Sector

Less than 10% of Provincial Growth Fund loans repaid

Of nearly $366m paid out in loans, just over $34m has been repaid.

Michael Neilson 04 Nov 2025