Govt to press on with three waters reforms

Govt to press on with three waters reforms
The government is betting fixing broken water infrastructure is a vote winner. (Image: Getty)
Pattrick Smellie
The government has accepted almost every recommendation from the working group that reviewed its “three waters” reform programme and will press ahead despite an ongoing build-up of political opposition.Today’s announcement from local government minister Nanaia Mahuta, backed by infrastructure minister Grant Robertson, sought to portray the final decisions on the contentious policy as new concessions to the growing body of opposition from local councils to the initiative.Mahuta, for example, sought to take the sting out of raci...

More Policy

‘Bluewater backbone’: Lyttelton, Auckland plan $1b+ of upgrades
Policy

‘Bluewater backbone’: Lyttelton, Auckland plan $1b+ of upgrades

Two of the biggest NZ ports are raising prices as they plan major investments.

'There are some firms in NZ I won’t touch'
Policy

'There are some firms in NZ I won’t touch'

Adam Feeley on the reluctance to call out poor performers in NZ infrastructure sector.

Oliver Lewis 30 Jun 2025
Govt mandates high-rise zoning around key CRL stations
Policy

Govt mandates high-rise zoning around key CRL stations

Auckland Council will need to provide for building heights of at least 10-15 storeys.

Oliver Lewis 25 Jun 2025
Infrastructure Plan floats higher health, electricity spend
Policy

Infrastructure Plan floats higher health, electricity spend

Draft plan identifies priority projects and recommends transport system reform.

Oliver Lewis 25 Jun 2025