The Labour Government’s local water reforms are affordable and necessary and they’ll save ratepayers money, Botany-based Labour List MP Naisi Chen says.
The Government recently announced a raft of changes to its contentious Three Waters policy, which initially would have established four publicly-owned water services entities.
The reforms are supported by some mayors and councils but have been criticised by others.
Chen says the revised policy has undergone significant changes which will establish 10 new regional entities including in east Auckland, “which will still deliver big cost savings to local ratepayers”.
The Government has listened to feedback and we’re making major changes to our affordable water reforms, “while still delivering big cost savings to New Zealand households”, she says.
“Feedback from Local Government has been clear that our water infrastructure deficit needs to be addressed now if we’re to save east Auckland households from ballooning bills that will make water unaffordable, and the reform programme must be led at a regional level. We agree.
“With the costs to address New Zealand’s water infrastructure deficit projected to be up to $185 billion over the next 30 years, we cannot leave these costs to ratepayers with rates rises locally of $2,450 up to $14,820 per year in Auckland by 2054 if we do nothing.
“Labour is simply not prepared to put extra costs on New Zealanders during a global cost of living crisis.”
Chen says under the revised proposal to establish 10 entities, east Auckland residents will see big savings, projected at $2,770 in Auckland a year by 2054 on average.
“By extending the number of publicly-owned water entities to 10, every council, and therefore every community, will now have a say and have representation over their local water services entities.
“Regional water entities will be owned by local councils on behalf of the public, and entity borders are based on existing regional areas.
“Too many of us have seen first-hand the recent flooding, cyclone, and extreme weather events impacting our community, and communities across the country.
“Our water infrastructure needs to be ready and we are prepared to partner with industry to achieve that.”
