Water  |  7 Mar 2025

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Public consultation opened today on Christchurch City Council’s proposed response to the Government’s Local Water Done Well reform.

Three different options have been evaluated in an Indicative Business Case – an in-house delivery model, a Three Waters Council-Controlled Organisation, and a Two Waters (water supply and wastewater) Council-Controlled Organisation.  

Mayor Phil Mauger says it’s now time to hear what residents think of the options.  

“Christchurch is well-placed for the future with three potential models that would work well for our city. 

“Financially sustainable water services are possible under all of the models we’ve looked at, however our Indicative Business Case points to the in-house model as the best option for Christchurch and that’s why it’s our proposal.” 

“Each model has unique benefits and drawbacks we want people to consider, and public feedback is crucial before any decision is made.” 

What does the Council want feedback on?  

We want you to consider the benefits and disadvantages of the proposed model and the alternative options and tell us which one you support.  

  • In-house model (our proposal). The Council would retain direct control for managing water services through its existing structure with financial ring-fencing. 
  • Three Waters Council-Controlled Organisation. An independent entity owned by the Council would focus exclusively on water services, with its own governance and operational structure. 
  • Two Waters Council-Controlled Organisation. A hybrid approach that balances independent management of water supply and wastewater, with Council oversight and management of stormwater. 

How can I give feedback? 

Before the Council makes a decision on a water services delivery model for our water supply, wastewater and stormwater, we want to know what you think. 

Take some time to read our consultation document and think about the different models.  

Visit letstalk.ccc.govt.nz/lwdw to make your submission, or pop into your nearest library or service centre and ask for a form. You can also ring us on 03 941 8999, provide your details and a good time for us to call, and one of our team will be in touch. 

Following consultation, councils are required to select a proposed water service delivery model as part of a Water Services Delivery Plan which must be finalised and submitted to the Department of Internal Affairs by September 2025. Consultation is open until Sunday 6 April. 

What is Local Water Done Well? 

Local Water Done Well is a Government-led reform aimed at addressing long-standing water supply, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure challenges across the country.  

It is intended to address inconsistencies in water service delivery and ensure that every community has access to safe, reliable, and sustainable water services.  

It provides some local flexibility on how this is achieved; however, the reform puts a strong emphasis on compliance with central government rules and regulations.