Council open-minded on water reform options

The Council is considering a range of options for the future of water service delivery in response to the Government’s Local Water Done Well reform programme.

Mayor Neil Brown says that the Council is open minded about which structure could work for Ashburton District.

“We’ve had conversations with other councils in Canterbury about combined water organisations, or we could remain largely as we are now if that proved beneficial for our ratepayers.”

“Another option we’re considering is a potential partnership with EA Networks, as we may wish to develop a Mid Canterbury solution for our water services,” he said.

Council has until August 2025 to propose a Water Services Delivery Plan to the Minister of Local Government.

Community consultation is earmarked for March or April 2025 once the Council has narrowed down the range of options.

Learn more about the Government's reform here.