Local Water Done Well reform

What is Local Water Done Well?

The Government-led reform is aimed at addressing long-standing water supply, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure challenges across the country. Local Water Done Well requires all councils to prepare a Water Services Delivery Plan and identify a proposed model for the delivery of water services.

What you have told us

Many thanks for all your feedback on the Dunedin City Council’s “Local Water Done Well – Ōtepoti Dunedin” consultation document. Submissions have now closed.

The consultation, which ran from 31 March - 30 April, prompted many submissions on two potential models for delivering water services:

• an in-house model
• Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) model

Our teams are currently reading and analysing a raft of submissions. Your feedback will help us choose which option is best for delivering water services in Ōtepoti Dunedin.

A joint hearing for both “Local Water Done Well – Ōtepoti Dunedin” and the draft 9 year plan will be held on 5- 8 May 2025 after which Council will decide on its preferred water services delivery model.

A lot to consider

Local Water Done Well is a Government-led reform aimed at addressing long-standing water supply, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure challenges across the country. Local Water Done Well requires all councils to prepare a Water Services Delivery Plan.

But first, as part of forming the Water Services Delivery Plan, we need to identify a proposed water services delivery model. That’s why we consulted with you – to seek your views on model we should choose.

Local Water Done Well consultation information

• Two potential delivery models

  The DCC has identified two potential models:

  1. an in-house model
  2. Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) model.

  Council recently decided its preferred model is an in-house model. However, your feedback will help us choose which option is best for delivering water services in Ōtepoti Dunedin.

  There’s a lot of things to think about, and lots of factors for you to consider.

  For the in-house model, factors that you might like to consider include:

  • direct ownership, control and management remains with DCC
  • easier co-ordination with other DCC services and functions
  • direct community involvement and accountability
  • less DCC debt
  • the forecast difference in water charges, with the in-house model forecast to have higher water charges in the first 9 years
  • the potential costs in the long term.

  For the CCO model, factors that you might like to consider include:

  • separate governance and management by a CCO of water services delivery
  • higher debt limit – with the CCO being able to take on 500% of revenue, compared to DCC’s limit of 280%
  • the forecast difference in water charges, with the CCO model forecast to have lower water charges in the first 9 years
  • the potential costs in the long term.

  Of course, your choice may influenced by other factors.

• Reports to Council

  Local Water Done Well

  Local Water Done Well

  Attachment Local Water Done Well - decision on model shortlist for WSDP - Nov 24

  Attachment Local Water Done Well - decision on model shortlist for WSDP - Nov 24

  Local Water Done Well - Decision on Water Models for Consultation - Report to Council Feb 25

  Local Water Done Well - Decision on Water Models for Consultation - Report to Council Feb 25

• Radio interview

  Curious about Dunedin's water infrastructure plans? Tune in to OAR 105.4FM to hear David Ward, DCC General Manager 3 Waters and Transition, present two options for public consultation aimed at improving our drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.

  "Local Water Done Well" continues the Government's conversation on New Zealand's water infrastructure challenges, a journey that began with the 2016 Havelock North illness outbreak and a review of water service delivery and safety. Join us as we explore ongoing efforts to ensure safe and reliable water for all, and don't miss your chance to submit your feedback before Wednesday 30 April.

  Tune in to the interview

• The OI Podcast

  Episode 90: Local Water Done Well with David Ward

  Dive into an insightful conversation with David Ward, DCC General Manager 3 Waters and Transition, as he discusses the "Local Water Done Well" reform and consultation with Otago Access Radio OI Podcast host Dr Barb Anderson. In this episode, David explains the reasons behind the reform, its implications for the community, and the various options available for managing water services. Discover how these changes could impact you and learn how you can have your say in shaping the future of local water management.
  
  Listen now

Working with mana whenua

We are committed to working closely with mana whenua to shape the future of water services in Ōtepoti Dunedin. Prioritising the health and wellbeing of water will remain central to our decision-making processes. As kaitiaki (guardians), mana whenua play a vital role in ensuring water services reflect cultural values, promote environmental sustainability, and support the needs of our communities, now and for future generations.

How does this consultation relate to the DCC’s 9 Year Plan?