Coast councils forge ahead with plans for water service delivery under Local Water Done Well

25 July 2025

Joint Media Release

Coast councils forge ahead with plans for water service delivery under Local Water Done Well

Buller, Grey and Westland District Councils are set to form a multi-council-controlled organisation for water services delivery under the coalition government’s Local Water Done Well legislation.

Buller District Council voted in favour of a joint Water Services Council Controlled Organisation (WSCCO) at an Extraordinary Council meeting on 30 June 2025, with Grey District Council following suit on 3 July 2025, and Westland reaching the same decision yesterday. 

Now a consensus has been reached, the councils will begin work together on a joint Water Services Delivery Plan in accordance with the coalition government’s Local Water Done Well reform. 

This plan must be submitted to the Department of Internal Affairs for approval by 3 September 2025. The new arrangements are expected to start coming into effect from 1 July 2027. 

Buller District Council Chief Executive Simon Pickford says: “By teaming up with our regional partners, we will be combining our technical expertise and sharing services to deliver reliable, cost-effective water solutions that meet the requirements of the legislation. 

Working together unlocks savings we couldn’t achieve alone, and we’re excited to further enhance our working relationship with the councils on the Coast.”

Grey District Council chief executive Joanne Soderlund says: “This agreement reflects our shared commitment to delivering water services that meet the requirements of the Local Water Done Well framework.  By collaborating regionally, we’re building a platform for more resilient, efficient infrastructure and achieving better value for our ratepayers.”

Westland District Council Chief Executive Barbara Phillips says: “By working together with our neighbouring councils through a shared Council Controlled Organisation, we’re ensuring Westland residents continue to receive safe, affordable, and sustainable water services, something we could not achieve alone. This collaborative approach allows us to meet regulatory standards, share expertise, and invest in future-proofed infrastructure while retaining local control and ownership.

-ENDS-

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