A Call for Collaborative Action on 3 Waters Reforms

 While it was peaceful for a number of months late last year without '3 Waters' grabbing headlines, the need for change in the sector hasn't gone away. The new governments 'Local Water Done Well' (they surely could come up with a better name) has last week given some clues about where it's heading, but so far is lacking in vital detail. Detail matters!

Economic regulation I believe is necessary and has proven to add layers of control and cost savings in other sectors (see Electricity), but I wonder right now is this a distraction and will it become a sticking point for the next 12-24 months while little or no other meaningful change occurs?

There are Council's right now in NZ who can justify a need for a cash injection to deliver vital upgrades to their waters assets. There are also Councils who do not understand their asset base, it's performance against objectives and where/how they should invest. In both cases, there is action that can and should be taken NOW.

All those involved in the waters sector need to prioritise purpose over political differences. At the heart of these changes lies the aim to improve outcomes for communities - specifically the provision of safe water which is pretty bloody important.

I'm pleased in 2024 to be partnering with the team at Morrison Low on a number of projects across NZ. I know the Morrison Low team, especially their Managing Director - Dan Bonifant, are as eager as I am to see better outcomes for NZ with respect to 3 waters and to support organisations through change.